Can I make these brownies without soaking the dates?

If your dates are soft and pliable, soaking is optional. Dry, hard dates need 10 minutes in warm water and draining to blend smoothly without clumping.

What's the difference between cacao powder and cocoa powder here?

Both work; raw cacao powder has a more intense flavor and more enzymes, while unsweetened cocoa powder is milder and more shelf-stable. Choose based on taste preference.

How long do no-bake vegan brownies last?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. They soften slightly at room temperature.

Can I skip the ganache topping?

Yes, the brownies are delicious plain. The ganache adds richness and a fudgy finish, but it's optional if you prefer a simpler texture.

What can I substitute for almond milk in the ganache?

Any plant-based milk (coconut, oat, soy) works. Use the same amount; choose unsweetened to control sweetness with the powdered sugar.

No-Bake Vegan Brownies with Chocolate Ganache

Name: No-Bake Vegan Brownies with Chocolate Ganache
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 min
Total time: 21 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups raw walnuts; 1 cup raw almonds; 3/4 cup cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 tsp sea salt; 2 ½ cups medjool dates ((pitted // if dry, soak in warm water for 10 minutes then drain // 2 ½ cups equal ~15 ounces)); 2 Tbsp cacao nibs ((plus more for topping)); 1/4 cup almond milk; 1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate ((chopped)); 2 Tbsp coconut oil ((melted // or sub vegan butter)); 1/4-1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 tsp sea salt

CookOSBeta

No-Bake Vegan Brownies with Chocolate Ganache | CookOS

Ingredients

1 ½ cups raw walnuts
1 cup raw almonds
3/4 cup cacao powder or unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
2 ½ cups medjool dates ((pitted // if dry, soak in warm water for 10 minutes then drain // 2 ½ cups equal ~15 ounces))
2 Tbsp cacao nibs ((plus more for topping))
1/4 cup almond milk
1 cup dairy-free dark chocolate ((chopped))
2 Tbsp coconut oil ((melted // or sub vegan butter))
1/4-1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 tsp sea salt

11 Ingredients

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Instructions

1
Place 1 cup walnuts (as original recipe is written // use 2/3 of the total if altering batch size) and the almonds in food processor and process until finely ground.
2
Add the cacao powder and sea salt and pulse to combine. Transfer to bowl and set aside.
3
Add the dates to the food processor and process until small bits remain. Remove and set aside.
4
Add nut and cocoa mixture back into food processor and while processing, drop small handfuls of the date pieces down into the food processor or blender spout.
5
Process until a dough consistency is achieved, adding more dates if the mixture does not hold together when squeezed in your hand. You may not use all the dates.
6
Add the brownie mixture to a small parchment-lined 8×8-inch dish (as original recipe is written // adjust if altering batch size) and before pressing, add remaining 1/2 cup roughly chopped walnuts (as original recipe is written // use remaining 1/3 of walnuts if altering batch size) and cacao nibs and toss to combine and evenly distribute. Then press down with hands until it is flat and firm. I like laying down a piece of plastic wrap to prevent sticking and get it really flat.
7
Lift parchment paper to remove brownies from dish and use hands to slightly squeeze in the sides to create a smaller square - this will make the brownies slightly thicker and more dense.
8
Transfer back to dish and place in freezer or fridge to chill for 10-15 minutes before cutting into 12 even squares (amount as original recipe is written // adjust if altering batch size). If adding ganache, slice afterwards!
9
FOR THE GANACHE: Add almond milk to a mixing bowl and microwave for 45 seconds or until very warm. Alternatively, heat in a small saucepan until just simmering, then transfer to mixing bowl.
10
Immediately add chocolate to warm milk and loosely cover. Don’t touch for 2 minutes so it can melt.
11
Add salt and stir gently with a wooden spoon to incorporate, then add melted coconut oil and use a whisk to mix. Set in fridge for 10 minutes to thicken.
12
Remove from fridge and add powdered sugar a little at a time to thicken. Whisk again to combine. If it’s still too thin, add another few Tablespoons powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
13
Frost brownies generously with frosting and then top with additional raw walnuts and cacao nibs (optional). Slice into 12 even squares (amount as original recipe is written // adjust if altering batch size).
14
Store brownies in an airtight container to keep fresh. Will keep for 3-4 days at room temperature, or in the freezer for at least 1 month (though best when fresh).