Craving a delightful treat that’s also good for you? These No-Bake Date and Walnut Brownies are the perfect solution. You’ll love how easy they are to make, offering a rich, chocolatey flavor without any baking required, making them a fantastic addition to your collection of Healthy Brownies Recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pitted Dates: Medjool dates work best for their softness. If using drier dates, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain well.
- Walnuts: Pecans or almonds can be used for a different nutty flavor.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Essential for that deep brownie taste.
- Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the other flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pitted dates
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 (depending on exact ingredient sizes)
- Tools Needed: Food processor, 8×8 inch baking dish, parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Combine Dates and Walnuts
Add the pitted dates and walnuts to your food processor. Process until they form a sticky, crumbly mixture. The mixture should clump together when you press it.
2. Add Cocoa Powder and Salt
Now, add the unsweetened cocoa powder and a pinch of salt to the food processor. Continue processing until everything is well combined and a uniform, dark dough forms.
3. Press into a Dish
Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. Firmly press the brownie mixture evenly into the prepared dish. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to ensure it’s compact.
4. Chill and Serve
Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Once chilled, lift the brownies out using the parchment paper overhang and cut them into squares. Enjoy these delightful Healthy Brownies Recipes!
Variation Ideas
- Add a tablespoon of natural peanut butter or almond butter to the mixture for extra richness.
- Mix in 1/4 cup of chocolate chips (dairy-free if preferred) for an extra chocolatey bite.
- Top with a sprinkle of sea salt flakes before chilling for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract for added depth of flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store your No-Bake Date and Walnut Brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for up to one month; just thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
A: Yes, pecans or almonds work wonderfully as substitutes for walnuts in these Healthy Brownies Recipes.
Q: Do I need to soak the dates?
A: If your dates are very firm or dry, soaking them in warm water for 10 minutes and then draining them thoroughly will help them blend more easily.
Q: How do I get the brownies out of the dish easily?
A: Lining your dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, makes lifting the chilled brownies out very simple.
Q: Are these brownies suitable for a vegan diet?
A: Yes, these No-Bake Date and Walnut Brownies are naturally vegan.
Q: Can I make these without a food processor?
A: It’s challenging to achieve the right consistency without a food processor. A powerful blender might work if you process in small batches, but a food processor is highly recommended for these Healthy Brownies Recipes.
Q: How long do these last at room temperature?
A: Due to the dates, it’s best to store them in the refrigerator. They can last a few hours at cool room temperature but will soften.
