These no-bake date cookies are a naturally sweet, chewy, and delicious treat made with just three simple ingredients. They are gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free, making them a healthy snack or dessert. With rich dark chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and naturally sweet Medjool dates, these cookies are irresistibly satisfying!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No baking required – Quick and easy to make.
- Naturally sweetened – Uses Medjool dates instead of refined sugar.
- Healthy and delicious – Packed with fiber and antioxidants.
- Vegan and gluten-free – A great snack for various dietary needs.
- Minimal ingredients – Made with just 3 (or 4) pantry staples.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 10 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter (with only peanuts and salt)
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Prepare the Dates
- If the dates are not soft, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes, then drain.
- Mash or blend the pitted dates into a smooth, sticky paste using a food processor.
Form the Cookies
- Mix in 1 tablespoon peanut butter with the mashed dates until well combined.
- Scoop small portions and roll into balls, then flatten into cookie shapes.
- Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Melt the Chocolate
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
- Dip each cookie halfway into the melted chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the top.
- Sprinkle with sea salt (if using) for extra flavor.
Set and Enjoy
- Place the cookies in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate sets.
- Serve immediately or store for later!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 10 cookies
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Nut-Free Version – Use tahini or sunflower butter instead of peanut butter.
- Extra Crunch – Add chopped nuts or cacao nibs for texture.
- Protein Boost – Mix in 1 tablespoon of protein powder.
- Coconut Flavor – Roll cookies in shredded coconut before chilling.
- Spiced Version – Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Freezing – Freeze for up to 2 months. Let thaw at room temperature before eating.
- No Reheating Needed – Enjoy straight from the fridge or at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use another nut butter?
Yes! Almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower butter all work well.
2. Do I need a food processor?
No, but it helps! If you don’t have one, mash the dates with a fork after softening them.
3. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but dark chocolate keeps the recipe vegan and lower in sugar.
4. What if my mixture is too sticky?
Chill the dough for 10 minutes before shaping into cookies.
5. Can I add oats to this recipe?
Yes! Stir in ½ cup of rolled oats for a heartier texture.
6. How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Melt it slowly in short intervals, stirring in between.
7. Can I skip the peanut butter?
Yes! Replace it with more blended dates or a nut-free alternative.
8. Are these cookies chewy or crunchy?
They are soft and chewy, but you can refrigerate longer for a firmer texture.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just store extras in the freezer for a longer shelf life.
10. What’s the best way to serve these cookies?
Enjoy them chilled, at room temperature, or with a cup of coffee or tea.
Conclusion
These no-bake date cookies are a simple and nutritious treat perfect for any time of day. With just three ingredients, they are naturally sweet, chewy, and incredibly satisfying. Try them today for a quick, healthy, and delicious snack!
Print
No-Bake Date Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These No-Bake Date Cookies are the perfect healthy sweet treat! Made with just 3 simple ingredients, they are naturally sweetened with dates, dipped in dark chocolate, and packed with creamy peanut butter. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly—ready in just 25 minutes!
Ingredients
- 10 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 tbsp creamy peanut butter (only peanuts & salt)
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- Sea salt, for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dates – Slice each date open, but don’t cut all the way through. Remove the pits if they haven’t been removed already.
- Fill with Peanut Butter – Spoon a small amount of peanut butter into each date and gently press them closed.
- Melt the Chocolate – In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Dip the Dates – Using a fork or tongs, dip each peanut butter-filled date into the melted chocolate, coating it fully.
- Set & Sprinkle – Place the chocolate-covered dates on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle with sea salt, if using.
- Chill & Enjoy – Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it nut-free – Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Customize it! Add chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Healthy, Vegan
