Raw Brownies With A Chocolate Ganache (Vegan & Gluten Free)

These raw brownies are heavenly – gooey, rich and so so chocolatey.  Trust me. The natural sweetness of the medjool dates works so well with the crunch of the pecans.

It’s also completely vegan and gluten free – making them an amazing dessert for everyone! They’re the quickest to make and require absolutely no baking, just a few simple ingredients and a food processor! So what are you waiting for? Let’s get going! (Oh, and you may want to serve these with a delicious cup of homemade milk)

Make sure to tag me on Instagram @ginabnutrition or hashtag #ginabnutrition – I LOVE to see your creations!

Raw Brownies? Can I eat Raw Brownies?

Yes, absolutely you can eat raw brownies (and you probably should… in moderation), but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:

  1. Ingredients: If the raw brownies are made from safe and edible ingredients, such as nuts, dates, and cocoa powder, they are generally safe to consume (LIKE THIS RECIPE!).
  2. Food Safety: When making raw brownies or any raw dessert, it’s crucial to maintain proper food safety practices. Ensure that your ingredients are fresh and properly stored, and be cautious about cross-contamination. Wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing the brownies.
  3. Allergies and Sensitivities: Be aware of any food allergies or sensitivities you may have to the ingredients in the raw brownies. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a history of allergies.
  4. Portion Control: While raw brownies made from natural ingredients can be healthier than traditional baked brownies, they can still be calorie-dense due to the natural sugars and fats present in ingredients like dates and nuts. Practice portion control to enjoy them as a treat within a balanced diet.
  5. Digestive Sensitivity: Some people may experience digestive discomfort when consuming large amounts of raw nuts or dates due to their fiber content. If you’re new to consuming raw brownies or similar raw treats, start with a small portion and monitor how your body responds.
raw brownies

 

Raw Brownies Ingredients

For The Raw Brownies:

  1. Medjool Dates (2 Cups): These dates serve as the main sweetener and binder for the brownies. They add natural sweetness and a chewy texture, while also providing essential fiber and nutrients.
  2. Nuts Of Choice (1 Cup, Pecans): The nuts, in this case, pecans, add a rich, nutty flavor, crunchiness, and healthy fats to the brownies. They also contribute to the texture and make the brownies more satisfying.
  3. Cocoa / Cacao Powder (3 tbsp): Cocoa or cacao powder provides the rich, chocolatey flavor that defines brownies. It’s a key ingredient for the dessert, giving it a deep, indulgent taste.
  4. Salt (1 Pinch): A small amount of salt enhances the overall flavor of the brownies by balancing the sweetness and bringing out the chocolate notes. It also acts as a flavor enhancer.

For The Ganache:

  1. Maple Syrup (3/4 Cup): Maple syrup serves as the liquid sweetener for the ganache, contributing a natural, earthy sweetness that complements the chocolate. It also adds a smooth consistency to the ganache.
  2. Cocoa / Cacao Powder (3/4 Cup): Similar to the brownie component, cocoa or cacao powder provides the chocolate flavor for the ganache, ensuring that it maintains a strong chocolate presence.
  3. Melted Coconut Oil (1/3 Cup): Melted coconut oil helps create a glossy and smooth texture for the ganache. It solidifies when chilled, allowing the ganache to set properly and achieve a desirable thickness.
  4. Salt (1 Pinch): Just like in the brownies, a pinch of salt in the ganache helps balance the sweetness, intensify the chocolate flavor, and adds depth to the overall taste.

Together, these ingredients create a delicious and decadent treat with a combination of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors, a fudgy texture, and a hint of salt to elevate the taste.

Raw Brownies With A Chocolate Ganache (Vegan & Gluten Free)

Raw Brownies With A Chocolate Ganache (Vegan & Gluten Free)

Georgina Burgess
These brownies are heavenly – gooey, rich and so so chocolatey.  Completely vegan and gluten free – making them an amazing dessert for everyone! They're the quickest to make ever and require no baking, just a few simple ingredients and a food processor!
Prep Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack

Ingredients
  

For The Brownies

  • 2 Cups Medjool Dates
  • 1 Cup Nuts Of Choice (I like Pecans)
  • 3 tbsp Cocoa / Cacao Powder
  • 1 Pinch Salt

For The Ganache

  • 3/4 Cup Maple Syrup
  • 3/4 Cup Cocoa / Cacao Powder
  • 1/3 Cup Melted Coconut Oil
  • 1 Pinch Salt

Instructions
 

For The Brownies

  • Blend the nuts in a food processor until finely ground
  • Add the dates, cacao powder and pinch of salt and whizz until a sticky mixture forms that comes together when squeezed in your hand
  • Press the mixture into a lined brownie tin
  • Place this in the freezer while you make the ganache

For The Ganache

  • Either blend all ingredients in a blender/food processor or whisk on a medium heat in a saucepan
  • Spread this on top of the brownies and smooth out with a spatula
  • Place in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to set – then thaw for a few minutes before serving

Notes

Store in the fridge in a container
Keyword vegan dessert, vegan snacks

 

raw brownies
raw brownies

What Is The Difference Between Regular Dates and Medjool Dates?

The main differences between regular dates and Medjool dates are in their size, texture, taste, and overall quality:

  1. Size: Medjool dates are significantly larger than regular dates. They are often referred to as “the king of dates” due to their impressive size.
  2. Texture: Medjool dates have a soft and tender texture that’s often described as “caramel-like.” Regular dates are usually a bit firmer and may not be as soft and plump as Medjool dates.
  3. Taste: Medjool dates are prized for their rich, sweet flavor with notes of caramel and a hint of butterscotch. Regular dates can vary in taste but are generally milder in flavor.
  4. Quality: Medjool dates are considered a premium variety of dates. They are often associated with higher quality and are more expensive than regular dates.
  5. Nutritional Content: Medjool dates are known to be slightly higher in calories and natural sugars compared to regular dates. However, both types of dates are nutritious, providing dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  6. Common Uses: Due to their larger size and softer texture, Medjool dates are commonly used in desserts and as natural sweeteners in recipes. Regular dates are also used in cooking and baking, but the differences in texture and size might affect the final outcome of a recipe.

When choosing between regular dates and Medjool dates for a recipe, consider the specific characteristics you’re looking for. If you want a larger, softer, and more flavorful date, Medjool dates are a great choice, especially for recipes where the date’s texture and taste are crucial. If size and texture are less important, regular dates might be a more economical option without sacrificing too much in terms of taste and nutritional benefits.

Is It Okay To Eat Medjool Dates Everyday?

Yes, it’s generally okay to eat Medjool dates every day as part of a balanced diet. Medjool dates are a natural whole food and a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals (particularly potassium and magnesium). In moderation, they can also be a healthier alternative to refined sugars. However, like any food, it’s essential to consume them, as noted, in moderation. You should probably be made aware that Medjool dates are relatively high in calories – so if you’re looking to lose weight, or manage your weight, you should factor this in to your decision making.

Why Are Medjool Dates So Expensive?

If you’ve ever seen them in the shop, you’ve probably noticed that Medjool dates are relatively much more expensive compared to other types of dates. There are several reasons for this:

  1. Labor-Intensive Cultivation: Medjool dates require a significant amount of manual labor during cultivation and harvesting. Each date palm tree needs individual care, including pruning, pollination, and protection from pests. The labor-intensive nature of Medjool date cultivation contributes to higher production costs.
  2. Water Requirements: Medjool date palm trees require a substantial amount of water, especially during the growing season. Cultivating these trees in arid regions with limited water availability increases the cost of irrigation, making the production process more expensive.
  3. Harvesting Process: Medjool dates are typically harvested by hand, one by one, to ensure they’re not damaged during the process. This meticulous harvesting method is time-consuming and requires skilled labor, adding to the overall cost.
  4. Size and Quality: Medjool dates are larger and have a softer, more luxurious texture than other types of dates. Their size and quality make them a premium product, and consumers are willing to pay a higher price for these desirable characteristics.
  5. Limited Growing Areas: Medjool dates are primarily grown in specific regions with suitable climates, such as the Coachella Valley in California, the Bard Valley in Arizona, and some Middle Eastern countries. The limited geographic distribution of Medjool date cultivation contributes to their scarcity and higher price.
  6. Demand and Reputation: Medjool dates have gained a reputation as a gourmet product with exceptional taste and texture. Their popularity and high demand in the market also contribute to their premium pricing.

It’s worth noting though that while Medjool dates may be more expensive, many people consider them worth the cost due to their unique flavor, size, and nutritional benefits.

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