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Fudgy Vegan & Gluten-Free Date Brownies

Close-up of a fudgy date brownies square on a white plate, showing a shiny, crackly top and melted chocolate chips.

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Make these fudgy date brownies for a naturally sweetened, guilt-free chocolate treat. These brownies use Medjool dates for sweetness and binding, resulting in a rich, chewy texture without refined sugar or flour.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup pitted Medjool dates (about 1214 large dates)
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
  2. Place the pitted dates and hot water in a food processor. Process until a smooth, thick paste forms. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides.
  3. Add the cocoa powder, almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract to the food processor with the date paste. Pulse until just combined into a thick batter. Do not overmix.
  4. Stir in the baking powder and salt by hand. Fold in half of the chocolate chips, if using.
  5. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips over the top.
  6. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The edges should look set, but the center will still be very fudgy.
  7. Let the brownies cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. Cooling allows them to set properly.
  8. Cut into squares and serve. These are best enjoyed after chilling for at least one hour.

Notes

  • Soak the dates in boiling water for 10 minutes if they are not soft enough to blend easily.
  • For a flourless option, ensure your cocoa powder is high quality for the best chocolate flavor.
  • These date brownies are naturally gluten-free due to the use of almond flour.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for the fudgiest texture.

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