If you’re searching for a no-sugar, no-oven, no-flour treat, these Almond and Date Cookies with Dark Chocolate are a perfect guilt-free indulgence. Ideal for holiday gatherings or as homemade gifts, this healthy dessert combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch of almonds and the richness of dark chocolate. Plus, they’re easy to make and loaded with nutritional benefits.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1¼ cups | 300g dates (preferably Medjool)
- 1¼ cups | 200g roasted almonds
- Approx. 3.5 oz | 100g dark chocolate (for coating)
Directions:
- Prepare Dates:
- Wash and soak dates in warm water for 10 minutes.
- Grind Almonds:
- Grind the roasted almonds in a food processor until fine.
- Form Dough:
- Add the soaked dates to the ground almonds and blend until the mixture is sticky and forms a dough.
- Shape Cookies:
- Roll the mixture into small balls. Use a citrus juicer (lined with plastic wrap) to press the balls into cookie shapes.
- Freeze:
- Place cookies on a tray, make a small indentation in each with a wooden spoon handle, and freeze for 15 minutes.
- Coat with Chocolate:
- Melt the dark chocolate and dip each cookie into it, allowing excess to drip off.
- Chill Again:
- Place the cookies back in the freezer for 15 minutes to set the chocolate.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled with a cup of coffee or tea for a quick and healthy dessert.
Cooking Tips:
- If the mixture is too sticky, lightly oil your hands when shaping the cookies.
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for a rich, decadent flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Dates: High in fiber, potassium, and natural sugars.
- Almonds: Provide healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.
- Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants and may improve heart health.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan, Gluten-Free, and No Added Sugar.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 4g
Storage:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 1 month.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Wholesome: No added sugar or flour, just pure, nutrient-dense ingredients.
- Easy to Make: No oven required, just a blender and a freezer.
- Versatile: These cookies can be customized with different flavors and toppings.
- Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully coated in dark chocolate, they make the ideal homemade gift.
Conclusion:
These Almond and Date Cookies with Dark Chocolate are a healthier alternative to traditional holiday treats. With their nutty base and luxurious dark chocolate coating, they offer the perfect combination of texture and flavor. Simple to prepare and packed with nutrients, they’re a guilt-free indulgence you can enjoy any time. Make these for your next gathering, and they’ll surely impress everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I substitute the almonds with another nut?
Yes, walnuts, pecans, or cashews work well as alternatives. - What kind of dates should I use?
Medjool dates are ideal due to their softness and sweetness. - Can I skip the dark chocolate coating?
Yes, the cookies are delicious on their own, but the chocolate adds an extra layer of flavor. - How long do these cookies last?
They can last up to a week in the fridge or a month in the freezer. - Can I make these nut-free?
Substitute the almonds with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version. - Is there an alternative to melting chocolate?
You can drizzle the cookies with a bit of nut butter instead of chocolate. - What can I use to make the mixture less sticky?
Add more ground almonds if the mixture is too sticky, or lightly oil your hands when shaping the cookies. - Are these cookies suitable for kids?
Yes, they’re naturally sweetened and contain healthy ingredients, making them a kid-friendly snack. - Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate contains added sugar, so it won’t be as healthy. - How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking?
Allow the chocolate to cool slightly before dipping and set the cookies in the fridge instead of the freezer to avoid cracking.