These no-bake vegan brownies are a delicious, healthier treat to replace your “traditional” brownie. They are packed with ingredients, including almond meal, dates, and cacao powder – for a treat that remains packed with flavor but is nutrient-dense and filling. Plus, they’re a great meal-prep snack to grab and go from your fridge and for days when you want a brownie without switching on the oven (especially warm summer days).
Watch my healthy brownies video
Why I love this recipe
These healthy brownies are a decadent, sweet treat everyone can enjoy. They are made with wholesome ingredients without sugar, flour, or eggs and can satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping your health goals in check. What makes this recipe truly special is how simple and quick it is. In just three easy steps—blending, shaping, and slicing—you’ll have delicious brownies ready to enjoy. There’s no need to use the oven, making these treats perfect for those busy days when you want something quick and delightful. Plus, these brownies are incredibly versatile. Whether you’re packing a lunch, looking for an on-the-go snack, reaching for a quick dessert from the fridge, or sharing them at your next potluck or cookout, they are sure to impress. Their rich, nutty flavor and chewy texture make them a favorite for any occasion.
How to make it
Make the batter: First, check if the dates are too dry. If needed, soak them in a bowl with hot water for about 10-15 minutes – this allows them to soften so they are easy to blend. If using espresso, make it following your preferred method (pods, filter, instant coffee – either will work).
Almond Meal: To make up the base. You could also blend walnut or macadamia nuts to use instead. Medjool Dates: Other date varieties work, too, though my preferred is always Medjool. Use soft, not dry, dates to achieve the sticky texture. Cacao Powder: I often switch between cocoa and raw cacao powder. Use cacao powder if you want a 100% raw recipe. Otherwise, either will work along with these substitutes. Walnuts: Although these healthy brownies are already nut-based, I love to add bigger chunks of nuts for extra texture and flavor. In this case, I used walnuts. Feel free to omit these or use a different nut if preferred. Vanilla: I use pure vanilla extract; you can also use vanilla bean paste. Espresso: Coffee is an amazing ingredient for enhancing the chocolate flavor without tasting too strongly of coffee. However, you could substitute this for milk or plant-based milk if preferred. The liquid helps to create a fudgy brownie texture. Sea salt: Just a pinch to balance the flavors.
Next, add the dates to a food processor and blend them into a paste. Add the almond meal, cacao powder, vanilla, espresso, and salt and blend to incorporate. Then add the walnuts and blend to your desired texture – you can leave them in chunks and make a smoother batter by blending longer. Finally, test the consistency of the batter by pressing it between your fingers – if it doesn’t crumble or fall apart, it’s ready. Otherwise, add 1-2 teaspoons of warm water or another soft date and blend again for a few seconds to incorporate. Spread and finish: Cover a baking pan or a square casserole dish with parchment paper and spread the raw brownie mix in an even layer. Depending on the size of the baking dish you use, the bars will be thinner or thicker. If you only have a large tray, simply spread the batter over half, pressing it into one side of the tray with a spatula or other flat tool. The parchment paper can also help you shape the brownies. Optionally, sprinkle the healthy brownies with cacao powder and top with a few more walnuts. Finally, cut them into squares and enjoy! If you try this no bake brownies recipe, let me know how it goes in the comments below. I’d appreciate a recipe card rating and would love to see your recipe recreations – tag me on Instagram @Alphafoodie!
