Make these rich, fudgy date brownies that satisfy chocolate cravings using only natural sweetness from Medjool dates. This recipe is easy to prepare and offers a wholesome alternative to traditional desserts.
Author:JessT
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:25 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:9 servings 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 12 large dates)
1/2 cup hot water
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1/4 cup maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan option)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Place the pitted Medjool dates and hot water in a food processor or high-speed blender. Process until a smooth, thick paste forms. This is your natural sweetener base.
In a large bowl, whisk together the date paste, melted coconut oil, maple syrup (if using), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the flour (or almond flour) until no streaks remain. If using, gently stir in the chocolate chips.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center should still be slightly soft for a fudgy texture.
Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment overhang.
Cut into squares and serve. These are best enjoyed once fully cooled.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour.
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the two eggs with two flax eggs (mix 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons water and let sit for 5 minutes to thicken).
If your dates are not soft, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before pitting and blending.
For a richer chocolate flavor, use dark cocoa powder.