No Bake Vegan Date Brownies

No Bake Vegan Date Brownies

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Craving something rich, chocolatey, and indulgent—without turning on the oven? These No Bake Vegan Date Brownies are the answer. They deliver a decadent fudgy texture and deep cocoa flavor, while staying completely plant-based and naturally sweetened.

Made with Medjool dates, cocoa powder, and a handful of pantry staples, these brownies are ridiculously easy to make and don’t require any baking skills. They’re a perfect snack to store in the fridge for a quick energy boost or to serve as a guilt-free dessert that still feels luxurious.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

For this no-bake recipe, having the right tools makes all the difference in getting that dense, chewy, and sliceable brownie texture.

  • Food Processor: This is your MVP. It blends the dates, nuts, and cocoa into a smooth yet firm dough. Without it, getting the right texture would be nearly impossible.
  • Rubber Spatula: Helps you scrape down the sides of the processor and press the mixture evenly into the pan.
  • 8×8 Inch Baking Dish: Even though there’s no baking, you still need a square dish to mold your brownies. Line it with parchment paper for easy lifting.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters to balance sweetness and texture, especially since dates can vary in size and moisture.

Using the proper equipment ensures your brownies hold together without being too sticky or too dry.


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Ingredients for the No Bake Vegan Date Brownies

  • Medjool Dates: These are the heart of the recipe. Naturally sweet, soft, and sticky, they bind everything together without the need for syrups or refined sugar.
  • Raw Walnuts: They add healthy fats, a mild crunch, and richness that complements the dates perfectly.
  • Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: This brings the deep, dark chocolate flavor. Choose high-quality cocoa for the best results.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds warmth.
  • Salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and intensify the chocolate.
  • Optional Add-ins: Chopped nuts, cacao nibs, or vegan chocolate chips if you want extra texture or bursts of flavor.

How To Make the No Bake Vegan Date Brownies

Step 1: Prep the Dates

Remove the pits from your Medjool dates. If they’re not very soft, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes and drain well.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In a food processor, combine the pitted dates and walnuts. Pulse until you get a crumbly, sticky mixture.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Cocoa

Add the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Blend again until everything is well incorporated and the mixture forms a dough that sticks together when pressed.

Step 4: Press into Pan

Line your 8×8 dish with parchment paper. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press it down evenly with a spatula or your hands. It should feel dense and hold its shape.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Refrigerate the pan for at least 1 hour to allow the brownies to firm up. Then slice into squares.


Serving and Storing Your No Bake Vegan Date Brownies

These brownies are rich and dense, making them ideal for small, satisfying squares. Serve them chilled directly from the fridge for the best texture—cool, firm, and deeply chocolatey. If you’re serving guests, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of melted vegan chocolate on top adds an elegant touch.

To store, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then stack with parchment paper in between. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.


Frequently Asked Questions

What type of dates should I use?

Medjool dates work best for their natural sweetness and sticky texture, which helps bind the brownies.

Can I use a blender instead of a food processor?

A high-powered blender can work in a pinch, but it’s harder to achieve the right consistency. A food processor gives you more control and ease.

Are these brownies gluten-free?

Yes! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making them safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I substitute the walnuts?

Absolutely. You can use almonds, cashews, or pecans. Each nut will give a slightly different flavor and texture.

How do I make these brownies more chocolatey?

Add a handful of vegan chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top before chilling.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, you can mix in a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder. Just reduce the cocoa slightly and add a tablespoon of water if the mixture gets too dry.


Want More No Bake Dessert Ideas?

If you’re loving these no bake vegan date brownies, you might also want to explore a few more indulgent yet simple treats.

Check out the No Bake Mini Banana Cream Pies for a fruity twist with a creamy filling. For something even more decadent, the No Bake Banana Pudding Cheesecake is a showstopper with layers of flavor.

Or venture into baked treats with the Decadent Chocolate S’mores Cupcakes that still carry that gooey, rich vibe. And if you want something portable, the Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes are absolutely delightful.

For cozy cake vibes, don’t skip the Cinnamon Donut Bread — soft, sweet, and snackable.


Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your vegan dessert board for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make them, I’d love to hear how they turned out. Did you add nuts? Use cacao nibs? Leave a comment below and share your twist on it. I’m always excited to see your creations.

For more daily dessert ideas, follow me on Pinterest @LadyPlate.


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No Bake Vegan Date Brownies

No Bake Vegan Date Brownies


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  • Author: Julia Koch
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 16 small brownies
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

These No Bake Vegan Date Brownies are a chocolate lover’s dream made healthy. Naturally sweetened with Medjool dates, packed with crunchy walnuts, and deeply flavored with cocoa, they require zero oven time and just a few ingredients. Perfect for a quick snack, dessert, or meal-prep treat.


Ingredients

1 ½ cups Medjool dates, pitted

1 cup raw walnuts

½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

⅛ teaspoon salt

Optional: ¼ cup chopped nuts, cacao nibs, or vegan chocolate chips


Instructions

1. Pit the Medjool dates. If they are firm or dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain well.

2. In a food processor, blend the dates and walnuts until a sticky, crumbly mixture forms.

3. Add the cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend again until fully combined and a dough forms.

4. Line an 8×8 inch dish with parchment paper. Press the dough into the dish evenly using a spatula or clean hands.

5. Optional: Sprinkle extra nuts or chocolate chips over the top and press lightly.

6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm. Slice into squares and enjoy chilled.

Notes

Use soft, fresh Medjool dates for best binding and natural sweetness.

For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.

Store refrigerated for optimal texture and freshness—these taste best chilled.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-bake
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Gluten-Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 brownie
  • Calories: 125
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 20mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6.3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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