No-Bake Brownies
Short Description
These 3-ingredient no-bake brownies are a quick, healthy, and delicious dessert that requires no oven. Made with naturally sweet Medjool dates, rich cocoa powder, and crunchy walnut pieces, these brownies are vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly. Perfect for a guilt-free treat, they come together in just 15 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Requires only three simple, wholesome ingredients
- No baking needed, making it a quick and easy dessert
- Naturally sweetened with dates, eliminating the need for added sugar
- Vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly
- Rich, chocolatey, and satisfying without processed ingredients
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- ½ cup organic cocoa powder
- 1 ¼ cups walnut pieces
Directions
- Prepare the Dates – If the dates are dry or hard, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes, then drain.
- Blend the Ingredients – In a food processor, blend the walnut pieces until they form a fine crumb. Add the cocoa powder and pitted dates, then blend until the mixture is sticky and holds together when pressed.
- Shape the Brownies – Transfer the mixture to a lined baking dish and press it down firmly into an even layer.
- Chill and Serve – Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, then cut into squares and enjoy.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 15 brownies
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 30 minutes (optional but recommended)
Variations
- Nut-Free Option – Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or shredded coconut.
- Extra Flavor – Add a pinch of sea salt or a teaspoon of vanilla extract for enhanced taste.
- Crunchy Texture – Mix in some cacao nibs or chopped almonds for added crunch.
- Sweeter Brownies – If you prefer a sweeter taste, add a drizzle of maple syrup or a few extra dates.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store the brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Serving Tip – These brownies are best enjoyed chilled but can be left at room temperature for a softer texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Yes, almonds, cashews, or pecans can be used as substitutes.
2. Do I need a food processor to make these brownies?
A food processor is recommended for the best texture, but a high-powered blender may also work.
3. Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of organic?
Yes, regular cocoa powder works fine, but organic is preferred for a cleaner ingredient list.
4. Are these brownies suitable for a keto diet?
No, dates are high in natural sugars and are not considered keto-friendly.
5. How can I make these brownies less sweet?
Use fewer dates or increase the amount of cocoa powder slightly for a more intense chocolate flavor.
6. Can I add protein powder to these brownies?
Yes, you can replace a small portion of the cocoa powder with unsweetened protein powder.
7. Are these brownies safe for children?
Yes, they are made with natural ingredients and are a great snack for kids.
8. Can I use pre-ground walnut flour instead of whole walnuts?
Yes, but the texture may be slightly different. Blend it with the dates for best results.
9. Do these brownies taste like traditional baked brownies?
They have a rich, chocolatey flavor and fudgy texture but lack the crisp edges of baked brownies.
10. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Yes, dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs can be mixed in for extra chocolatey goodness.
Conclusion
These 3-ingredient no-bake brownies are an easy, healthy, and delicious treat that requires minimal effort. Whether you need a quick snack or a naturally sweet dessert, this recipe is sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings. Try different variations to customize them to your taste, and enjoy a guilt-free indulgence!
Print
Healthy No-Bake Brownies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 15 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These 3-ingredient no-bake brownies are the perfect healthy dessert! Naturally sweetened with Medjool dates, packed with walnuts, and rich in organic cocoa powder, they are vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly. Ready in just 15 minutes, these brownies are fudgy, nutritious, and require zero baking!
Ingredients
- 20 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 cup organic cocoa powder
- 1 1/4 cups walnut pieces
Instructions
- Soften the Dates – If your Medjool dates are firm, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain.
- Blend the Ingredients – In a food processor, add the walnuts and pulse until finely ground. Add the dates and cocoa powder, then blend until a sticky dough forms.
- Shape the Brownies – Transfer the mixture to a lined baking dish, press it firmly into an even layer, and refrigerate for 10-15 minutes.
- Slice & Serve – Once set, cut into squares and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of sea salt or a splash of vanilla extract.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for longer shelf life.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap walnuts for sunflower seeds or shredded coconut.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Healthy, Vegan, Paleo
