If you’re looking for a sweet treat that doesn’t require an oven and is packed with wholesome ingredients, then you’re in for a delightful surprise. Introducing The Ultimate Unbaked Brownies! These brownies are rich, fudgy, and incredibly easy to whip up. Made primarily from dates and walnuts, they offer a satisfying texture and a decadent chocolate flavor without any guilt. Perfect for those late-night cravings or as a healthier dessert option, these brownies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– **No Baking Required**: Say goodbye to preheating your oven and waiting for treats to bake.
– **Wholesome Ingredients**: Packed with natural sweetness from dates and healthy fats from walnuts.
– **Customizable**: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste, adding in nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
– **Quick and Simple**: With minimal prep and clean-up, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
– **Energy Boosting**: These brownies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide a quick energy boost thanks to the natural sugars and nutrients.

The Essentials

To create The Ultimate Unbaked Brownies, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups loosely packed pitted dates
1 1/2 cups walnuts
6 tbsp cacao or cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 tsp water
1/4 + 1/8 tsp salt
1/4 cup cacao or cocoa powder (for the topping)
1/2 cup pure maple syrup, honey, or agave
2 tbsp vegetable or melted coconut oil
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract (for the mixture)

Toolbox for This Recipe

Food Processor: For blending the ingredients into a smooth and creamy mixture.
9×9-inch Baking Dish: To shape and set your brownies.
Parchment Paper: For easy removal of the brownies after they set.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula: To spread the brownie mixture evenly in the dish.

Cooking The Ultimate Unbaked Brownies: The Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by measuring out all your ingredients. This will make the process smoother and ensure you don’t miss anything. Make sure your dates are pitted and soft; if they’re a bit dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Blend the Base

In your food processor, combine the pitted dates, walnuts, 6 tablespoons of cacao or cocoa powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract, water, and 1/4 + 1/8 teaspoons of salt. Pulse until the mixture is well combined and starts to clump together. You want a sticky and dough-like texture.

Step 3: Add Sweetness and Fat

Next, add the 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup (or honey/agave) and 2 tablespoons of vegetable or melted coconut oil to the food processor. Blend again until everything is incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and slightly sticky.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Take a small amount of the mixture and taste it. You can add more cacao powder for a richer chocolate flavor or a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness.

Step 5: Spread into the Baking Dish

Line your 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Transfer the brownie mixture into the dish and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Press down firmly to create a dense layer.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to set. This helps the brownies firm up and makes them easier to cut.

Step 7: Cut and Serve

Once set, remove the brownies from the dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut them into squares or bars, and if desired, dust the top with an additional 1/4 cup of cacao or cocoa powder for a beautiful presentation.

No-Store Runs Needed

You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already. Here’s a list of items you may not need to run to the store for:

Pitted dates
Walnuts
Cacao or cocoa powder
Pure vanilla extract
Maple syrup, honey, or agave
Vegetable or coconut oil

Slip-Ups to Skip

While making The Ultimate Unbaked Brownies is quite simple, here are a few tips to avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t skip soaking the dates if they are hard. This step is crucial for the right texture.
Be careful not to over-process the mixture; you want a thick, doughy consistency, not a puree.
Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the dish to avoid crumbly brownies.
Allow enough time for the brownies to chill; this step is key for achieving the perfect texture.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Once you’ve made your The Ultimate Unbaked Brownies, here’s how to store them for optimal freshness:

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For longer storage, you can freeze the brownies. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They will keep well for up to 3 months.
To serve from frozen, simply thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes.

Ask & Learn

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to use almonds, pecans, or even sunflower seeds if you have nut allergies. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

How can I make these brownies sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter brownie, you can increase the amount of maple syrup, honey, or agave. Just add a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired sweetness.

Can I add other mix-ins to the brownies?

Yes! You can fold in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Just make sure not to overmix.

What’s the best way to cut these brownies?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it between cuts. This prevents the brownies from sticking to the knife and gives you neat squares.

Save & Share

If you love The Ultimate Unbaked Brownies, sharing is caring! Save this recipe for a quick reference and share it with friends and family who would appreciate a deliciously healthy treat. Don’t forget to snap a picture of your creation and tag your favorite food bloggers to spread the love!

Indulging in The Ultimate Unbaked Brownies means enjoying a dessert that is not only delicious but also nourishing. With every bite, you can feel good about what you’re eating. So grab your ingredients, get your food processor ready, and treat yourself to a batch of these delightful brownies. You won’t regret it!