Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re craving chocolate but want a treat you can feel good about, these raw brownies are the answer. They’re packed with fiber, healthy fats, and natural sweetness, making them a nutritious yet indulgent option. Plus, they’re vegan, gluten-free, no-bake, and super quick to prepare. Perfect for dessert, a mid-day snack, or even a grab-and-go breakfast.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Medjool dates
raw walnuts or almonds
unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder
vanilla extract
pinch of salt
water (if needed for blending)
chopped nuts or cacao nibs (optional, for topping)
Directions
- Add the nuts to a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
- Add pitted dates, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Process until the mixture is sticky and starts to clump together. Add a splash of water if needed.
- Press the dough firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan or any small dish.
- Optional: Sprinkle extra chopped nuts or cacao nibs on top and press gently into the surface.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Slice into squares or bars and enjoy.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 9–12 brownies.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Variations
- Nut-free: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead of nuts.
- Add texture: Stir in shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, or chopped dried fruit.
- Minty twist: Add a drop of peppermint extract for a chocolate-mint version.
- Espresso flavor: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to enhance the chocolate taste.
- Layered version: Top with a raw chocolate ganache or peanut butter layer for extra indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
Store raw brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them thaw for a few minutes before eating for the best texture.
No reheating needed.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides walnuts?
Yes, almonds, pecans, or cashews work well. Each will add a slightly different flavor.
What if my dates are too dry?
Soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain before using.
Are raw brownies healthy?
They’re made with whole food ingredients and no refined sugar, making them a healthier treat option.
Can I use cocoa powder instead of cacao?
Yes, both work. Cacao is less processed and slightly more bitter, while cocoa has a smoother taste.
Do I need a food processor?
Yes, for best results. A high-powered blender may work but is less effective for mixing sticky doughs.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Just use a larger dish or pan and store extras in the fridge or freezer.
Do they taste like real brownies?
They have a rich, chocolatey flavor and chewy texture that mimics traditional brownies quite well — especially for a no-bake, whole-food treat.
Can I add protein powder?
Yes, a scoop of plant-based chocolate or vanilla protein powder can be added. You may need to adjust moisture levels.
What’s the best way to press them into the pan?
Use clean hands or press with a spatula. Placing parchment paper on top while pressing can help avoid sticking.
Can I serve them at room temperature?
Yes, but they’ll be softer. They hold their shape best when chilled.
Conclusion
Raw Brownies are the perfect combination of indulgent flavor and nourishing ingredients. With no oven required and a simple list of pantry staples, this treat is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Whether you’re satisfying a sweet craving or prepping snacks for the week, these no-bake brownies are a delicious, fuss-free option you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Raw Brownies
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 9–12 brownies
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Raw Brownies are rich, fudgy, no-bake treats made with dates, nuts, and cocoa powder. Naturally sweetened and free from refined sugar, flour, and dairy, they’re a healthy and indulgent dessert or snack ready in minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 1/2 cups raw walnuts or almonds
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1–2 tablespoons water (if needed for blending)
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts or cacao nibs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Add nuts to a food processor and pulse until finely ground.
- Add pitted dates, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Process until mixture is sticky and begins to clump. Add water as needed.
- Press mixture firmly into a parchment-lined 8×8-inch pan or small dish.
- Optional: Sprinkle with chopped nuts or cacao nibs and press lightly.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Slice into squares or bars and enjoy.
Notes
- Soak dry dates in warm water for 10 minutes to soften.
- Substitute sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
- Enhance flavor with espresso powder, peppermint extract, or shredded coconut.
- They taste best chilled but can be served at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
