Are you a fan of sweet treats that just happen to be good for you? Look no further! Dates are the ultimate superfood, packed with natural sugars, fiber, and a slew of essential vitamins and minerals. And when you combine them with creative twists and flavors, you get a world of deliciously decadent vegan date recipes.
From classic desserts like tarts and puddings to healthy snacks like energy balls and smoothies, we’ve rounded up 18 irresistible vegan date recipes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Whether you’re a seasoned pro in the kitchen or just starting out on your plant-based journey, these treats are sure to become new favorites.
So what are you waiting for? Dive into the world of vegan date delights and get ready to indulge in some seriously sweet indulgences!
Vegan Date Caramel Tart
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the natural sweetness of dates with a velvety caramel filling, all wrapped up in a buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (softened), such as Earth Balance
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine oats, vegan butter, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and salt. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
4. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. In a small saucepan, combine chopped dates, almond milk, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramel-like consistency is achieved (about 10-12 minutes).
6. Pour the date caramel mixture into the baked tart crust. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Stuffed Dates
Transform the humble date into a decadent treat by filling it with creamy cheese and drizzling it with rich chocolate. This sweet and savory combination is perfect for parties or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted dates
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese and honey until smooth.
3. Stuff each date with the cheese mixture, dividing it evenly among the dates.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Dip each date into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
7. If desired, sprinkle with chopped pecans before the chocolate hardens.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Date-Sweetened Banana Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of dates to create a moist and flavorful banana bread that’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, soaked in hot water and chopped
– 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, chopped dates, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cool on wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Date and Walnut Loaf
This moist and flavorful loaf is perfect for a quick breakfast or snack. The combination of sweet dates and crunchy walnuts creates a delightful texture that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup walnut halves
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine dates, walnuts, oats, flour, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Stir in apple cider vinegar and vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Raw Vegan Date Energy Balls
These bite-sized energy balls are made with wholesome ingredients, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or post-workout snack. With only 5 minutes of preparation time, you can enjoy the natural sweetness and energizing properties of dates, nuts, and seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Soak the dates in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and blend the dates with 1/4 cup water until smooth.
3. In a bowl, combine the blended date mixture, oats, almonds, coconut, chia seeds, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small energy balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is raw and ready to enjoy.
Date-Sweetened Oatmeal Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of dates with the heartiness of oatmeal, perfect for a satisfying snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, soaked in water and blended into a paste
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar, brown sugar, and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and date paste until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing evenly apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Sticky Toffee Pudding with Dates
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this rich and indulgent pudding, infused with the natural sweetness of dates and a sticky toffee sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond or soy)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped dates, pitted
– 2 tablespoons unsalted vegan butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour mixture into 6 individual serving cups or ramekins.
6. Top each cup with chopped dates and dot with vegan butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pudding is set and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Date and Almond Butter Smoothie
Start your day with a boost of natural energy and flavor from this creamy date and almond butter smoothie. With the sweetness of dates and the richness of almond butter, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 pitted dates
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
3. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! Just blend and go!
Enjoy your delicious and healthy Date and Almond Butter Smoothie!
Vegan Date and Coconut Bliss Balls
A sweet and satisfying treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the creamy richness of coconut, all wrapped up in a bite-sized package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, combine the dates, coconut, oats, and maple syrup. Process until the mixture is well combined and slightly sticky.
2. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the salt and vanilla extract.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 bliss balls.
4. Place the bliss balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None, these bliss balls are ready to go straight away!
Spiced Date and Apple Crumble
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates and apples with a blend of warming spices, topped with a crunchy oat and butter crumble. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chopped pitted dates
– 2-3 cooking apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine dates, apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. Mix until well combined, then spread into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix brown sugar and oats.
5. Add melted butter to the oat mixture and stir until crumbly.
6. Spread the crumble mixture evenly over the apple-date mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Chocolate Date Shake
A rich and decadent treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the deep flavors of cocoa, perfect for a hot summer day or a special indulgence any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen banana
– 1/4 cup pitted dates
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Add the frozen banana, pitted dates, and cocoa powder to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
3. Add the maple syrup and non-dairy milk, blending until well combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or consistency as desired.
5. Pour into glasses filled with ice cubes and serve immediately.
Cook Time: 0 minutes (blending time)
Date-Sweetened Chia Pudding
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of chia seeds with the natural sweetness of dates, creating a healthy and delicious dessert option.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup chia seeds
– 1/4 cup pitted dates, soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight
– 1 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the chia seeds and dates.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, honey (if using), and salt.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the chia-seed mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight until the pudding has thickened.
5. Stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-12 hours (depending on refrigeration time)
Enjoy your healthy and delicious Date-Sweetened Chia Pudding!
Vegan Date and Pecan Pie
This rich and gooey pie is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, with the natural sweetness of dates and the crunch of pecans. This vegan version uses a flax egg and maple syrup to create a deliciously smooth filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, soaked in water
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup flaxseed + 1/2 cup water (flax egg)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Drain and chop the dates.
3. In a blender, combine soaked dates, oats, maple syrup, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth.
4. Add the flax egg and blend until well combined.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Roll out pie crust and fill with the date mixture.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Caramelized Date and Banana Pancakes
Start your day with a twist on classic pancakes by incorporating caramelized dates and ripe bananas. These sweet and savory treats will become a new favorite breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped dates and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and milk.
3. Add egg to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in cooked banana slices and caramelized dates.
5. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on pancake size and cooking method)
Vegan Date and Cashew Cheesecake
Experience the creamy richness of a traditional cheesecake with a twist, featuring sweet dates and crunchy cashews. This vegan dessert is perfect for those looking to indulge in a dairy-free treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cashews
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 graham cracker crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Soak cashews in water for at least 4 hours, then drain and rinse.
2. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, dates, maple syrup, coconut cream, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Press the cheesecake mixture into the graham cracker crust.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set.
5. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to chill.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Date-Sweetened Pumpkin Bread
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spices, resulting in a moist and delicious bread perfect for fall gatherings or cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a blender or food processor, blend dates with 1 tablespoon water until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Add pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and date mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Vegan Date and Tahini Bars
A sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for a snack or dessert, these Vegan Date and Tahini Bars are made with wholesome ingredients and no animal products.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine dates, tahini, maple syrup, and coconut sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in rolled oats, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Stuffed Medjool Dates with Dark Chocolate
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of dark chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 Medjool dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the chocolate chips and butter, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Stuff each date with about 1-2 teaspoons of the melted chocolate mixture.
5. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the chocolate is set and slightly caramelized.
7. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweetest vegan treats! This collection of 18 decadent date recipes will satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds. From rich desserts like Vegan Sticky Toffee Pudding with Dates and Vegan Date and Coconut Bliss Balls, to sweet snacks like Raw Vegan Date Energy Balls and Stuffed Medjool Dates with Dark Chocolate, these indulgent treats are sure to impress. With a range of flavors and textures, there’s something for everyone in this delicious array of vegan date recipes. Treat yourself or share with friends – either way, you won’t be disappointed!
