Vegan Walnut Date Cookies: Easy, Healthy & Gluten-Free Recipe

Craving a sweet treat that’s both wholesome and utterly delicious?

Look no further! These Vegan Walnut Date Cookies are the answer to your cravings. They’re incredibly easy to make, packed with natural sweetness, and have a satisfying chewy texture that will leave you wanting more. Plus, they’re perfect for impressing friends and family (even the non-vegans!). Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cookie!

Why You’ll Love It

• They’re naturally sweet from dates, meaning no refined sugar overload!
• The combination of walnuts and dates creates a wonderful chewy and nutty texture.
• They’re quick to prepare – perfect for a last-minute treat or a bake-off with kids.
• These cookies are completely vegan and easily adaptable for various dietary needs.
• They make a fantastic addition to a holiday cookie platter or a simple afternoon snack.

What Makes This Recipe Unique?

What truly sets this recipe apart is the careful balance of textures and flavors. Unlike many vegan cookies that might rely heavily on oil or processed ingredients, these cookies derive their moisture and sweetness primarily from Medjool dates. The toasted walnuts provide a delightful crunch and earthy counterpoint to the dates’ rich caramel-like notes. The touch of vanilla and sea salt elevates the overall experience, making these cookies incredibly satisfying and refined, despite their simplicity.

Ingredient List

• 1 cup (150g) Medjool dates, pitted
• 1 cup (100g) walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup (60ml) plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup (120g) rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

Medjool Dates: These provide natural sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavor, as well as acting as a binder.

Walnuts: These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dates.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a food processor, combine the pitted Medjool dates, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract. Process until a smooth paste forms. Scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add the chopped walnuts, sea salt, rolled oats, and baking powder to the food processor. Pulse until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix – some chunks are okay.
4. Drop rounded tablespoons of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
5. Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a spoon or your fingertips to desired thickness.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies are set.
7. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Toppings/Variations

Want to jazz up your cookies? Here are some fun ideas:

• Sprinkle with coarse sea salt before baking for an extra salty kick.
• Drizzle with melted vegan dark chocolate once cooled.
• Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
• Stir in 1/4 cup of vegan chocolate chips into the dough before baking.

Expert Tips

• Toast your walnuts before adding them to the dough for a more intense nutty flavor.
• Make sure your dates are soft and moist. If they’re a bit dry, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before using.
• Don’t overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough. Pulse until just combined.
• Use a cookie scoop for uniform-sized cookies that bake evenly.
• Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Can I use different nuts? Yes, pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts would all work well in this recipe.
• Can I substitute the rolled oats? You can use quick oats, but the texture might be slightly different. Avoid using oat flour, as it absorbs too much liquid.
• Can I make these without a food processor? Yes, you can. Mince the dates finely and mash them with a fork, then combine all the other ingredients. The texture may be slightly less smooth.
• How do I store the cookies? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
• Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, the cookie dough can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to a month.

Variations and Customization Options

Get creative and personalize your cookies!

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Citrus Zest: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Seed Power: Mix in a tablespoon of chia seeds or flaxseeds for added nutrients and a bit of texture.
• Coffee Kick: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the batter for a mocha-like twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Vegan Walnut Date Cookies are perfect on their own as a satisfying snack, or paired with a glass of almond milk or a cup of tea. They are also a great addition to a dessert platter for parties or holiday gatherings. Try them warm from the oven for a truly comforting experience.

Conclusion

These Vegan Walnut Date Cookies are proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or refined sugars to make something truly delicious. They’re easy to make, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight treat or a special occasion, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. So go ahead, bake a batch and enjoy every nutty, chewy bite! Share your photos on social media, and don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more amazing recipes!

Related Recipes You’ll Love

• Gluten-Free Chocolate Cake
• Flourless Almond Cake
• Gluten-Free Carrot Cake
• Apple Fritter Bread

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