Teff desserts offer a delightful way to enjoy this ancient grain during summer. Recipes like Teff Chocolate Chip Cookies, Teff Banana Bread, and Teff Pudding Parfait provide a perfect blend of flavor and nutrition. For a revitalizing treat, consider Teff Blueberry Muffins or Teff Fruit Crumble. No-bake options such as Teff Energy Balls and warm delights like Teff Rice Pudding cater to all preferences. Many more creative versions exist, ensuring there’s something for everyone to savor.
Teff Chocolate Chip Cookies
Teff chocolate chip cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, using nutrient-packed teff flour that adds a unique flavor and a slightly chewy texture.
These cookies are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthier treat without sacrificing taste—great for kids, adults, and even those with gluten sensitivities (if using gluten-free teff).
With a preparatory time of just about 15 minutes and a baking time of 10-12 minutes, these cookies are quick to make and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the teff flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until well combined and creamy.
- Beat in the vanilla extract and the egg, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips (and nuts, if using) until evenly distributed.
- Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Tips:
- For a vegan option, substitute the butter with coconut oil and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for an elevated flavor.
- For a fun twist, replace half of the chocolate chips with dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, for a sweet and tart contrast.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Teff Banana Bread
Teff Banana Bread is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, offering a nutritious spin thanks to the inclusion of teff flour. This naturally gluten-free grain adds a nutty flavor and boosts the bread’s fiber and protein content, making it ideal for health-conscious individuals or anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful treat.
With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 50 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2-3 medium bananas)
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 cup nuts (walnuts or pecans) or chocolate chips (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted coconut oil (or butter) until well mixed.
- Add in the honey (or maple syrup), eggs, and vanilla extract, and whisk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix the teff flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If desired, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or some dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the batter.
- If you prefer a sweeter bread, increase the amount of honey or maple syrup to taste.
- This banana bread freezes well! Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Experiment with spices like ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile in your banana bread.
- Serve warm with a spread of almond butter or cream cheese for a delightful treat.
Teff Pudding Parfait
Teff Pudding Parfait is a delightful and nutritious dessert, perfect for summer gatherings, brunches, or a light evening treat. Made with teff, a tiny grain packed with protein and fiber, this parfait layers creamy teff pudding with fresh fruits and granola, creating a revitalizing dish that is both satisfying and wholesome.
The preparation time is about 20 minutes, and after a little chilling, you will have a delightful dessert that can serve 4 people.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff grains
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups mixed fresh fruits (e.g., berries, bananas, mangoes)
- 1 cup granola
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Cooking Steps:
- Rinse the teff grains under cold water in a fine mesh sieve.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed teff with 3 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the teff is cooked.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Then, stir in the coconut milk, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract. Mix well until creamy.
- To assemble the parfaits, find clear glasses or bowls. Start with a layer of the teff pudding at the bottom.
- Add a layer of mixed fresh fruits followed by a layer of granola. Repeat the layers until the glasses are filled, finishing with fresh fruit and granola on top.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For a chocolatey twist, add cocoa powder to the teff pudding before mixing in the milk.
- Swap out the coconut milk for almond, soy, or oat milk based on your preference.
- Feel free to customize the fruits according to the season or your taste; peaches or kiwi can make excellent additions.
- To add an extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or seeds between layers.
- This parfait can also be made ahead of time; just keep the granola separate until serving to prevent it from getting soggy.
Teff Blueberry Muffins
Teff blueberry muffins are a delightful and nutritious treat, perfect for a summer breakfast or snack. Made with the ancient grain teff, these muffins are gluten-free and packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them ideal for health-conscious individuals or those with dietary restrictions.
The preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with an additional 20-25 minutes for baking, allowing you to enjoy warm, fluffy muffins in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup maple syrup or honey
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon for extra flavor
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the teff flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. Mix well to guarantee an even distribution of dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the maple syrup (or honey), almond milk, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are okay.
- Fold in the blueberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Tips:
- For added texture and nutrients, you can mix in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) or seeds (like chia or flax seeds) into the batter.
- To enhance the blueberry flavor, consider adding lemon zest to the batter.
- If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before folding them in; this helps prevent the batter from turning blue.
- Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- These muffins can easily be adapted to include other fruits, such as raspberries or chopped bananas, to cater to your taste preferences.
Teff Brownie Bites
Teff Brownie Bites are delicious, bite-sized treats that blend the rich, chocolaty flavor of traditional brownies with the nutritious benefits of teff flour, a gluten-free grain that is high in protein and fiber. These delightful morsels are perfect for anyone looking for a healthier dessert option, including those with gluten sensitivities.
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a baking time of 20 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these fudgy treats in no time, making them ideal for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply an indulgent guilt-free snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a mini muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the teff flour, cocoa powder, coconut sugar, baking soda, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. If desired, fold in the dark chocolate chips.
- Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Tips:
- For an extra twist, add in some chopped nuts or dried fruits such as walnuts, pecans, or raisins for added texture and flavor.
- You can substitute coconut sugar with regular granulated sugar or honey if preferred, keeping in mind it may slightly alter the flavor.
- For a vegan version, confirm all ingredients are plant-based, including the chocolate chips.
- Store any leftover brownie bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for about a week. They can also be frozen for longer shelf life; simply thaw before serving.
Teff Apple Crisp
Teff Apple Crisp is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of spiced apples with a unique and nutritious teff-based crumble topping. This dish is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in, as it’s certain to satisfy both sweet cravings and health-conscious diets.
With a preparation time of about 20 minutes and a baking time of 30 minutes, this recipe makes for a quick yet comforting dessert that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup teff flour
- 1/4 cup oats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Cooking Steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and half of the brown sugar. Mix well until the apples are evenly coated.
- In another bowl, mix together teff flour, oats, remaining brown sugar, melted butter, and salt. If using, fold in the chopped nuts to the mixture.
- Spread the apple mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Top the apples with the teff crumble, spreading it evenly over the apple layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Variations and Tips:
- For added flavor, mix in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or nutmeg to the apple mixture.
- You can substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar to make it a bit healthier.
- To make it gluten-free, verify the oats and teff flour are certified gluten-free.
- Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a decadent treat.
- Feel free to mix in different fruits, such as pears or berries, to create a fruit medley apple crisp.
Teff Lemon Tart
Teff Lemon Tart is a delightful and invigorating dessert that combines the earthy flavor of teff flour with the bright and zesty notes of lemon.
This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or simply as a light ending to a meal. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and yields stunning results.
The preparation time for this tart is about 20 minutes, plus the chilling time required for the filling to set.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Cooking Steps:
1. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the teff flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until crumbly. Add the egg and mix until a dough forms.
Press the dough into the bottom and sides of a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the crust from the refrigerator and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, lemon juice, lemon zest, and salt until well combined.
4. Bake the Tart: Pour the lemon filling into the cooled crust. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly puffed.
5. Cool and Chill: Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Serve: Dust the cooled tart with powdered sugar before slicing and serving. Enjoy the invigorating flavor!
Variations and Tips:
- For a creamier filling, consider adding 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the lemon mixture before baking.
- Experiment with flavor by adding different citrus zest like orange or lime for a unique twist.
- To elevate the presentation, garnish with fresh berries or edible flowers before serving.
- Properly store any leftovers in the refrigerator, where the tart keeps well for up to 3 days.
Teff Energy Balls
Teff Energy Balls are a nutritious and satisfying snack that harness the power of teff, a tiny grain packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Perfect for athletes, busy professionals, or anyone seeking a quick and healthy treat, these energy balls are not only delicious but also energy-boosting, making them an ideal choice for post-workout recovery or an afternoon pick-me-up.
The preparation time is roughly 15 minutes, and they require no baking, making them a simple yet delicious snack option.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup nut butter (peanut or almond)
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans)
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or dried fruit
Cooking Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the teff flour, rolled oats, and salt. Mix well to guarantee that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In another bowl, mix together the nut butter, honey (or maple syrup), and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until combined.
- Add in the chopped nuts, chia seeds, and any optional ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit. Stir until everything is well incorporated.
- Using your hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate.
- Once all the mixture is rolled into balls, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them set.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
Variations and Tips:
- Feel free to substitute the nut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
- Experiment with different mix-ins like shredded coconut, hemp seeds, or various spices (cinnamon or cocoa powder) to customize the flavor.
- For an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding protein powder to the mixture.
- If the mixture is too dry and crumbly, add a splash of water or additional nut butter to help it stick together.
- To enhance the presentation, roll the energy balls in shredded coconut, cocoa powder, or crushed nuts before refrigerating.
Enjoy these Teff Energy Balls as a wholesome, on-the-go snack that is sure to keep your energy levels up while tantalizing your taste buds!
Teff Rice Pudding
Teff Rice Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert that showcases the nutty flavor and unique texture of teff, a tiny grain native to Ethiopia. This dish is perfect for those looking for a wholesome indulgence that is naturally gluten-free and rich in nutrients.
It’s ideal for summer evenings when you want something sweet yet light, and it can be enjoyed warm or chilled. The preparation time for this recipe is around 30 minutes, followed by 20-30 minutes of cooking time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff grain
- 4 cups water or milk (or a mix of both)
- 1/2 cup sugar or sweetener of choice (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: chopped fruits, dried fruits, nuts, or coconut flakes
Cooking Steps:
- Rinse the teff grain under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear to remove any impurities.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed teff, water or milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 20-30 minutes or until the teff is tender and the pudding has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Remove the pudding from heat and let it cool slightly. It will thicken more as it cools.
- Serve warm or chilled, topped with your choice of fruits, nuts, or coconut flakes if desired.
Variations and Tips:
- For a richer flavor, consider using coconut milk or almond milk instead of regular milk.
- To make a chocolate version, add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder during cooking and adjust the sweetener accordingly.
- Experiment with spices such as nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.
- If you prefer a creamier pudding, stir in a dollop of yogurt or whipped cream just before serving.
- This pudding can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep.
Teff Cookie Sandwiches
Teff cookie sandwiches are a delightful and wholesome dessert that brings the nutty flavor of teff flour to the forefront. These cookies are not only gluten-free but also packed with nutrients, making them a great choice for health-conscious individuals or those with dietary restrictions.
Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or as an after-school treat, this recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bake, plus some additional time for assembly and cooling.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup coconut oil (softened)
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup creamy nut butter (like almond or sunflower seed butter)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, combine teff flour, almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
- In another bowl, beat together the softened coconut oil and maple syrup until fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough begins to form. Stir in the chocolate chips.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out small amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each ball to make a cookie shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cookies have cooled, take a spoonful of nut butter and spread it on the flat side of one cookie. Top with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich. Repeat with the remaining cookies.
Variations & Tips:
- For added flavor, consider mixing in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough.
- Experiment with different fillings, such as fruit jams or flavored cream cheese.
- If you like a crunchier texture, toast your nuts before adding them to the cookie dough.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
Teff Fruit Crumble
Teff Fruit Crumble is a delightful and wholesome dessert that combines the nutty flavor of teff flour with a medley of fresh seasonal fruits. This dish is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet treat while still maintaining a healthy balance in their diet.
Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering, looking for a quick family dessert, or simply craving something delicious, this crumble is ready in approximately 45 minutes, including prep and baking time.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup teff flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups mixed fruits (such as peaches, berries, and apples), chopped
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: ice cream or yogurt for serving
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Fruit: In a large bowl, combine the chopped mixed fruits with honey or maple syrup and lemon juice. Toss to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×9 inch baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In another bowl, mix together the teff flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir with a fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble: Evenly distribute the crumble topping over the prepared fruit layer in the baking dish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the crumble to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, optionally topped with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of yogurt.
Variations and Tips:
- Fruit Varieties: Feel free to mix and match fruits based on what is in season or what you have on hand. Berries, stone fruits, or even rhubarb work brilliantly.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the crumble for an additional layer of flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Incorporate some chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) into the topping for added texture and nutrition.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil to make the dish dairy-free.
- Serving Size: This recipe serves about 6 people, making it great for sharing at gatherings.
Enjoy your delicious Teff Fruit Crumble as a wholesome dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings while celebrating the flavors of the season!
