I can’t wait to share this one! You know those nostalgic cosmic brownies from your childhood? Well, let me tell you: I’ve recreated them in a completely vegan, no-bake version that's not just super easy to whip up but also filled with wholesome ingredients. The other day, I found myself daydreaming about slumber parties and late-night chocolate cravings, and that’s when the idea for these No-Bake Vegan Cosmic Brownies sparked to life! They’re indulgent yet guilt-free, and I guarantee you’ll be reaching for seconds (or thirds!).
Why you’ll love this recipe
It’s not just the rich chocolatey flavor or the delightful chewiness that makes these brownies stand out—it's the magic of simplicity. Made with wholesome ingredients like medjool dates and almond flour, they give you all the sweet satisfaction without compromising on your health goals. Imagine biting into a fudgy brownie topped with creamy chocolate ganache, dotted with vibrant rainbow candy-coated chips that not only look beautiful but also provide that satisfying crunch.
Plus, the best part? These vegan cosmic brownies are a breeze to put together. No ovens, no fuss—just good, clean fun in your kitchen! They can easily be tailored to suit dietary preferences, making them the ultimate treat for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. So come on, let’s dive into this delightful journey together!
Gather these ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these heavenly brownies:
2 cups medjool dates, tightly packed: These little gems are nature's candy, providing the perfect sweetness and sticky texture that holds the brownie together. Make sure they're fresh and soft for easy blending!
1 1/2 cups almond flour: This nutty flour adds a delightful flavor and a tender crumb. It’s a fantastic gluten-free alternative. If you don’t have almond flour, feel free to use oat flour instead!
1 cup raw walnuts: Rich in omega-3s, walnuts offer a satisfying crunch and help to create a decadent base for your brownies. If nuts aren’t your thing, sunflower seeds can be a great substitute.
1/2 cup cocoa powder (or cacao powder): Go for the unsweetened kind to keep the brownie from being overly sweet. This is where the deep chocolate flavor comes from. Cacao powder is great if you're looking for an even richer chocolatey experience!
1 tsp vanilla extract: This will elevate all the flavors, adding a warm, fragrant note that complements the chocolate beautifully.
1/4 tsp salt: Just a touch of salt accentuates the sweetness and balances the flavors.
1 1/2 cups chocolate chips: Use your favorite kind—dark, semi-sweet, or even vegan chocolate. These will melt into a luscious ganache, making everything delightful.
2/3 cup canned coconut cream: This provides that rich, creamy texture. It's the secret weapon for a luxurious ganache. If you want something lighter, light coconut milk can also work well.
1 tbsp maple syrup: A hint of sweetness to round everything off. Agave syrup is a nice substitute if you’re looking for alternatives.
1/4 cup rainbow candy-coated chips: Because who doesn’t love a pop of color? They add a fun crunch and nostalgic joy to our cosmic brownies!
Preparing No-Bake Vegan Cosmic Brownies
Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the process!
Prep your dish. Line a 9x9 square dish with parchment paper, leaving some flaps hanging over the edges. Trust me, this will make lifting those brownies out a breeze!
Make the brownie base. In your trusty food processor, combine the almond flour, walnuts, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt. Pulse until the walnuts are finely crumbled—think flour-like consistency. Now, add in the pitted medjool dates. Blend until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
Press it in. Transfer your brownie dough to the prepared dish and firmly press it down in an even layer. Get those knuckles in there; it should be solid!
Prepare the ganache. In a separate bowl, combine the chocolate chips, maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
Melt the cream. Open the can of coconut cream and scoop all of its contents into another bowl (both the thick cream and the clear liquid underneath). Microwave it for 1 minute and 45 seconds to soften, then whisk until smooth.
Combine. Pour 2/3 cup of your melted coconut cream over the chocolate mix. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then whisk until it’s beautifully smooth. If your chips haven’t melted fully, give them another 15-30 seconds in the microwave.
Spread it out. Pour that luscious chocolate ganache over the brownie layer, spreading it evenly. If necessary, tap the dish gently against the countertop to help even it out.
Top it off. Sprinkle those vibrant rainbow candy-coated chips over the top for a super fun finish.
Chill out! Let your cosmic brownies chill in the refrigerator for about 4 hours (or longer if you can resist) until the ganache is set.
Slice and serve. Gently lift the brownies out using the parchment paper and cut into 16 squares. Enjoy each bite as they transport you back to those cosmic days of yore!
Best way to enjoy it
These brownies are fantastic on their own, but if you’re feeling a bit fancy, how about serving them with a dollop of whipped coconut cream or a side of fresh berries? I also love pairing them with a nice cup of herbal tea or a glass of almond milk—perfect for balancing the sweetness!
How to store and freeze
Want to save some for later? Just pop those cut brownies into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for an even longer stay! Just wrap each square tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When you're ready to indulge, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes—or enjoy them chilled for a delightful contrast!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few extra nuggets of wisdom to ensure your cosmic brownie-making experience goes off without a hitch:
Use fresh dates: They bind everything beautifully, adding both sweetness and texture. If your dates are dry, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes beforehand.
Don’t skip on the chilling: It's what allows the ganache to set properly, giving you that perfect slice later on!
Customize the toppings. If rainbow candy isn't your vibe, consider crushed nuts or coconut flakes for a different twist.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get playfully creative with this recipe! Swap out the walnuts for pecans, or toss in some nut butter for an even creamier texture. You could also layer in some dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a fruity surprise.
Your questions answered
1. How long do they take to prepare?
You’re looking at about 30 minutes to prep, with 4 hours of chill time. Patience is a virtue!
2. Can I use another flour?
Absolutely! Oat flour works wonderfully if you're looking for a gluten-free alternative.
3. What if I can’t find medjool dates?
You can substitute them with other soft dates, or even dried figs, but keep in mind the flavor might change slightly.
4. Can I add protein powder?
Sure, just make sure to adjust the liquid ratio slightly since protein powder can absorb moisture.
5. Are these brownies nut-free?
For a nut-free option, sub the almond flour with sunflower seed flour and the walnuts for pumpkin seeds.
I hope you feel inspired to whip up these dazzling No-Bake Vegan Cosmic Brownies! They truly combine nostalgia with health consciousness—and it’s such a joy to share a piece of my kitchen with you. So roll your sleeves up, give this recipe a go, and don’t forget to share your creations and thoughts! Let's build a vibrant cooking community, one delightful square at a time!
