SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla: The Ultimate Portable Fuel for Outdoor Adventures

Discover how to make a delicious and portable SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla on your stovetop using grain-free tortillas, perfect for energizing your outdoor adventures.

There’s nothing quite like the call of the wild during summer. My soul truly thrives on those invigorating weekends spent camping under a canopy of stars, the thrill of an early Friday afternoon dedicated to outdoor climbing, and the spontaneous day hikes with friends that somehow always turn into epic, longer-than-expected journeys. These moments of connection with nature are what I live for, and preparing for them is half the fun.

As an avid planner, I find immense satisfaction in having everything perfectly organized before embarking on any adventure. This includes meticulously laying out my gear, selecting weather-appropriate clothing, and, most importantly, having a well-thought-out plan for delicious and sustaining food. Our next grand escapade is a week-long exploration of the breathtaking Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and I’m already envisioning all the incredible, fuel-packed meals we’ll enjoy.

If you’ve spent any significant time hiking, camping, or engaging in outdoor pursuits, you know that the food experience can often be, shall we say, less than inspiring. It’s a common challenge to find options that are truly lightweight, effortlessly portable, don’t demand immediate refrigeration, and actually taste fantastic – especially if you’re trying to avoid a steady diet of prepackaged bars and bites. I remember my earlier adventuring days, relying heavily on protein bars, basic trail mix, and a few sad veggie slices, always knowing a massive, satisfying meal awaited me back at basecamp.

While there’s certainly nothing wrong with the convenient “snack-y” approach, I’ve discovered a truly game-changing solution that is not only incredibly delicious and deeply satisfying but also happens to be naturally gluten-free and vegan. Allow me to introduce you to the SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla – a creation that has swiftly become a non-negotiable staple in my outdoor meal planning arsenal. This simple yet brilliant recipe has gained such legendary status among my friends that they now anticipate it expectantly at every summit, often chuckling as I retrieve my neatly foil-wrapped, surprisingly thin, and perfectly concise lunch from my pack.

Preparing this extraordinary SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla requires just three key ingredients, and I can almost guarantee it will quickly earn a spot as your new favorite hiking or adventure meal. Say goodbye to the disheartening sight of smashed sandwiches, soggy bagels that have seen better days, or lukewarm protein shakes that offer little joy. This is the protein-packed, portable meal designed to slip effortlessly into your hiking pack, ready to be savored hours later on a scenic trail, a majestic rock outcrop, or a cozy campsite. You can bet your bottom dollar I’ll be whipping one up daily during our Wyoming adventure!

What You Need to Make SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla

Creating this delightful SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla couldn’t be simpler, requiring minimal effort and only three core ingredients that come together beautifully on your stovetop. The key to its success lies in the quality and choice of these components, ensuring a delicious and satisfying result every time. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:

Almond Flour Tortillas: These are crucial for achieving the perfect crispy texture that holds up well for portability. Their grain-free nature also makes this recipe accessible to those with dietary restrictions, contributing to a wholesome and energizing meal.
No Sugar Added SunButter: My absolute top recommendation. This particular variety of SunButter delivers a rich, nutty flavor from roasted sunflower seeds, perfectly balanced with a hint of sea salt, without any added sugars. It’s a powerhouse of plant-based protein and healthy fats, making it an excellent fuel source for active bodies.
No-Sugar-Added Jelly: Opting for a jelly without added sugar ensures you get the vibrant, natural sweetness of the fruit without any unnecessary extras. This choice complements the savory notes of the SunButter beautifully, creating a balanced and flavorful combination.

That’s truly all it takes! These three thoughtfully chosen ingredients are the foundation for a quick, easy, and incredibly versatile meal or snack.

How to Make SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla

The preparation of the SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla is remarkably straightforward, requiring only a stovetop and a pan spacious enough to comfortably accommodate your tortillas. The magic happens quickly, transforming simple ingredients into a golden, crispy delight. Follow these easy steps for perfection:

1. Prepare Your Skillet: Begin by heating a medium-sized skillet over medium heat. It’s important to allow the pan to get adequately warm but not scorching hot, which could lead to burning rather than even crisping.

2. Assemble the Quesadillas: While your skillet is gradually warming, take this time to construct your quesadilla. Lay out two almond flour tortillas. On one tortilla, generously spread the SunButter, ensuring an even layer across the surface. On the second tortilla, apply the no-sugar-added jelly. I often find that a slightly more generous layer of jelly enhances the overall flavor balance, but feel free to adjust the proportions to perfectly suit your personal taste preferences!

3. Combine and Transfer: Gently bring the two tortillas together, sandwiching the SunButter and jelly fillings, to form a complete quesadilla. With the help of a spatula, carefully transfer your assembled tortilla creation to the preheated skillet.

4. Cook Until Golden and Crispy: Cook the quesadilla for approximately 3 to 4 minutes on the first side. You’re looking for a beautiful, light golden-brown color and a crispy exterior. Once achieved, carefully flip the quesadilla with your spatula. The second side will typically cook much faster, often requiring significantly less time, usually 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent over-browning or burning.

Your SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla is perfectly done when both sides boast that appealing golden-brown hue and satisfying crispness. When lifted with a spatula, the cooked quesadilla should feel firm and hold its shape, without any tendency to sag. Always watch the second side diligently to ensure it doesn’t burn, as heat retention in the pan can accelerate cooking.

5. Cool and Enjoy: Once cooked to perfection, remove the quesadilla from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. While tempting to devour immediately, letting it cool for a few minutes allows the flavors to meld and the structure to set, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

About SunButter

My unwavering preference for No Sugar Added SunButter in this recipe stems from its pure simplicity and powerful nutritional profile. Crafted exclusively from perfectly roasted sunflower seeds and a touch of sea salt, it embodies a clean-eating philosophy that aligns perfectly with an active lifestyle. The subtle hint of salt within the SunButter is not merely for taste; it masterfully enhances the sweetness of the jelly, creating a complex and incredibly satisfying flavor dynamic.

Beyond its fantastic taste, SunButter is a nutritional champion, especially for those seeking robust, plant-based fuel. A single serving delivers an impressive 7 grams of plant-based protein, making it an invaluable addition to any meal, particularly when preparing for or recovering from physical activity. It’s packed with healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, providing sustained energy without the sugar crash associated with many other spreads.

You can dollop on as much as you desire, feeling confident that you are nourishing your body with high-quality, healthy fuel. Moreover, the inherent creaminess and rich flavor of SunButter make it a match made in heaven for pairing with jelly. This combination isn’t just a classic; it’s a synergistic blend designed to satisfy cravings while providing essential nutrients. For adventure-seekers, busy professionals, or anyone looking for a wholesome and delicious alternative to traditional nut butters, SunButter offers unparalleled versatility and taste.

Swaps & Substitutions

While the classic No Sugar Added SunButter is my go-to for this recipe, offering a distinct and balanced flavor, the beauty of this quesadilla lies in its adaptability. You can easily customize it to suit your pantry, preferences, or dietary needs. Here are some thoughtful swaps and substitutions:

SunButter Variations: If you want to experiment, feel free to use other SunButter flavors, such as the creamy, crunchy, or chocolate varieties, each offering a unique twist to the classic combination.
Alternative Nut or Seed Butters: Any nut or seed butter you have on hand can work in a pinch. Peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter, or even tahini could be used. However, I truly believe that SunButter imparts a special, allergen-friendly character and depth of flavor that is hard to replicate.
Fruit Spreads: The choice of fruit spread is entirely up for interpretation and offers endless possibilities! While I adore using homemade or quality store-bought no-sugar-added jelly, you can also experiment with different types of jam, fruit preserves, or even fruit butter. Imagine the autumnal delight of combining SunButter with a rich apple butter – a combination you absolutely won’t regret! Strawberry chia seed jam (like my own recipe) also works wonderfully for a healthier, fruit-forward option.
Tortilla Choices: I specifically recommend almond flour tortillas for their superior crisping ability and grain-free composition, which ensures the quesadilla holds its integrity and provides a satisfying texture. However, if you’re feeling adventurous or have other dietary considerations, you can certainly try different types of tortillas. Whole wheat tortillas will offer a heartier texture, while corn tortillas might lend a slightly chewier finish. Be mindful that different flours will crisp and cook distinctly on the stovetop, so you might need to adjust cooking times accordingly. If you venture into using other types of tortillas, I’d love to hear about your results!

These substitution ideas allow you to tailor the SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla to your taste and dietary needs, making it a truly versatile recipe for any occasion.

Notes on Meal Prep and Portability

One of the many advantages of the SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla is its excellent suitability for meal prepping and its remarkable portability, making it an ideal companion for any adventure. I typically prepare these quesadillas on the same day I intend to enjoy them, finding them most delightful at room temperature, or whatever the ambient temperature happens to be at your destination!

When you’re preparing your quesadilla for an outdoor expedition, the key to its success on the go is proper packing. Once the quesadilla has cooled almost completely, I highly recommend wrapping it snugly in aluminum foil. This compact wrapping allows you to effortlessly slip it into your hiking bag, purse, or backpack, ensuring it stays intact and ready for enjoyment hours later.

What makes this quesadilla truly superior to many other portable snacks is its inherent design: it’s super flat and compact. This characteristic means it resists “smashing” or getting squished much better than a traditional sandwich. Even if it does get a little compressed during your travels, rest assured, it still tastes absolutely amazing and retains its satisfying texture hours after preparation. There’s no risk of a disappointing, soggy mess!

Crucially, these quesadillas do not demand immediate refrigeration. This is a game-changer for long hikes or travel days. I’ve personally found that they remain perfectly good and safe to eat for up to 12 hours on the go, and potentially even longer depending on external conditions. For those who prefer to make them further in advance, they store beautifully in the refrigerator for a few days, ready to be grabbed and packed whenever adventure calls.

How to Serve SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla

The SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla transcends the ordinary, offering an easy, deeply satisfying, and versatile meal or snack for a multitude of occasions. While it shines as a perfect companion for your outdoor escapades, its appeal isn’t limited to just the wilderness.

Think of it as an elevated, sophisticated take on the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It brings together a delightful combination of slightly nutty, perfectly sweet, and utterly satiating flavors that hit all the right notes. It’s an excellent choice for a quick lunch on the go, whether you’re navigating urban jungles or actual ones.

For those who love to DIY, consider pairing this quesadilla with a homemade jam. My Strawberry Chia Seed Jam is a fantastic option, offering natural sweetness and a boost of omega-3s without any refined sugar, perfectly complementing the SunButter.

Beyond its reputation as an adventure meal, this recipe is incredibly adaptable for home consumption. It makes for a quick, no-fuss breakfast that can be enjoyed immediately, offering a hearty start to your day. Kids love it too, making it a healthy and exciting alternative to their usual breakfast fare or school lunchbox fillers.

You can serve it simply as is, or for a more complete meal, consider adding a side of fresh fruit, a handful of crunchy nuts, or a refreshing beverage. However you choose to enjoy it, this quesadilla promises a delicious and wholesome experience.

More Vegan Quesadillas for Your Repertoire

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and deliciousness of this SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla, you’ll be thrilled to discover more vegan quesadilla creations that are just as satisfying and simple to make. Expand your culinary horizons with these fantastic options:

Sweet Potato Black Bean Quesadilla

This savory quesadilla is packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients. Sweet potatoes provide a creamy texture and natural sweetness, perfectly balanced by hearty black beans and a medley of spices. It’s a fantastic option for a protein-rich lunch or a light dinner, offering both flavor and substantial nutrients. Ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying vegetarian alternative.
Nut Butter & Jam Breakfast Quesadilla

Similar in concept but with its own unique charm, this breakfast quesadilla elevates your morning routine. Using your favorite nut butter and a sweet fruit jam, it’s a quick and customizable way to enjoy a warm, comforting breakfast. It’s a wonderful choice for busy mornings when you need something delicious, filling, and easy to prepare before heading out the door.

I Want to Hear From You!

If you decide to make this delightful SunButter & Jelly Quesadilla recipe, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue creating more delicious content for you.

Please take a moment to leave me a comment, rating, and review below. Your thoughts and suggestions are always appreciated!

Don’t forget to give me a shout on Instagram and use the hashtag #floraandvino to show off your delicious creations. I love seeing what you make!

Also, be sure to check out my Pinterest page to pin this recipe and discover many more like it to try later.

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XO Lauren