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I. LOVE. DATES. They’re just one of those snack cabinet staples I can’t live without. I love turning them into 4-ingredient date caramels, healthy snickers, cookie dough date bites, or even enjoying them completely on their own. I’m always on the hunt though for creative ways to dress up my dates, and I just knew these smashed dates would be delicious! There’s just something about getting that perfect ratio of date to peanut butter to chocolate in this smashed dates recipe that makes these – dare I say… the best dates ever?! You also can’t beat that they’re just 3 ingredients and entirely no bake!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 10 minutes of prep and uses only 3 ingredients!
  • Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with natural sweetness, protein, and healthy fats, these dates are as nutritious as they are delicious.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally vegan, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
overhead image of smashed dates with peanut butter and chocolate on a baking sheet.

What You’ll Need to Make Smashed Dates

  • Medjool Dates: These plump and naturally sweet fruits are the star of the recipe, offering a chewy texture and caramel-like flavor.
  • Unsweetened Peanut Butter: Adds creaminess and a protein-packed, nutty richness to complement the sweetness of the dates. Substitute with almond or sunflower seed butter for based on your needs/preferences.
  • Melted Chocolate Chips: Dark or semi-sweet chocolate works best for a rich topping. Opt for dairy-free or refined sugar-free chocolate if needed, I love these Hu Kitchen chocolate gems!

How to Make Smashed Dates

  1. Prep the Dates: Slice each medjool date lengthwise to remove the pit, then lay them flat on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  2. Smash and Fill: Use the bottom of a glass or your hand to flatten each date. Spread a generous layer of peanut butter over each one.
  3. Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt your chocolate chips, drizzle over the dates, and transfer them to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate hardens.
  4. Enjoy: Sprinkle with flaky salt, serve, and enjoy!
a bite taken out of a smashed date with peanut butter and chocolate.

Topping Options

  • Flaky Salt: A must for balancing the sweetness and enhancing flavors.
  • Chopped Nuts: Add a crunchy texture by sprinkling crushed peanuts, almonds, or pistachios on top.
  • Coconut Flakes: For a tropical twist, sprinkle unsweetened coconut flakes over the chocolate.

Sam’s Recipe Tips

  • Pit Removal Hack: Use a small knife or your fingers to easily remove the pit from the dates.
  • Smashing Technique: If your dates stick to the glass, lightly grease the bottom with a bit of oil or butter.
  • Storage: Store smashed dates in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or in the freezer for 3 months!
hand holding a smashed date with peanut butter, chocolate, and flaky salt.
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Smashed Dates with Peanut Butter and Chocolate

These smashed peanut butter and chocolate dates require just three ingredients and minimal effort! With naturally sweet medjool dates, creamy peanut butter, and rich melted chocolate, this recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, making it perfect for everyone. A sprinkle of flaky salt ties it all together, creating the ultimate indulgent yet wholesome snack or dessert!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 10 servings

Equipment

  • baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 10 medjool dates
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened peanut butter or any nut/seed butter
  • 1/2 cup melted chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Open up each date, remove the pit, then lay it flat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Press down on each date to smash it until it’s as thin as you’d like. Then, spread some peanut butter on top of each smashed date.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate over each date, then transfer the dates to the fridge or freezer until the chocolate has hardened. Top with flaky salt and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 150kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 2.5g | Fat: 6g | Sugar: 20g

This tofu chocolate mousse recipe is a dessert game-changer! With just three ingredients, it’s easy, nutritious, and endlessly customizable. Perfect for anyone following a vegan, gluten-free, or refined sugar-free lifestyle. Indulge in this creamy and satisfying high-protein dessert today!

Overhead image of silken tofu chocolate mousse in a small ramekin with whipped cream and a raspberry on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s rich, creamy, and chocolatey while being completely vegan and dairy-free.
  • Made with just 3 simple ingredients, this mousse is easy to whip up in minutes and perfect for any occasion.
  • Packed with protein from silken tofu and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, this dessert is both healthy and indulgent.
  • Gluten-free and refined sugar-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

What You’ll Need to Make Tofu Chocolate Mousse

Silken Tofu: The base of the mousse, silken tofu creates an irresistibly smooth and creamy texture while adding a healthy dose of plant-based protein. Remove your tofu from the fridge at least 30 minutes before making this recipe, since you’ll need it at room temperature before combining it with the other ingredients!

Chocolate Chips: Melted dark chocolate chips are the star of this recipe, adding a rich and luxurious chocolate flavor. Opt for dark chocolate to keep the mousse vegan and naturally lower in sugar.

Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that balances the dark chocolate’s richness while adding a hint of caramel-like sweetness.

How to Make Tofu Chocolate Mousse

  1. Add the melted chocolate, silken tofu, and maple syrup to a blender or food processor.
  2. Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
  3. Divide the mousse into four small bowls or ramekins, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
  4. Serve chilled with your favorite toppings, such as fresh berries, coconut whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Close up image of silken tofu chocolate mousse in a small ramekin with whipped cream and a raspberry on top.

Switch Up the Flavors

  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor.
  • Mix in a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate notes.
  • Sprinkle crushed nuts or shredded coconut on top for added texture.
  • Stir in a touch of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you taste the tofu in this chocolate mousse?

Not at all! The chocolate and maple syrup completely mask the tofu flavor, leaving you with a rich and creamy mousse.

Can I use firm tofu instead of silken tofu?

It’s best to use silken tofu for the smoothest texture. Firm tofu may result in a grainy mousse.

Can I substitute the melted chocolate for cocoa powder?

You can, but the mousse may lack the richness that melted chocolate provides. If using cocoa powder, add extra maple syrup or a touch of coconut oil for creaminess.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigerator: Store the mousse in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze the mousse in individual portions for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, or enjoy it as a frozen treat straight from the freezer.
silken tofu chocolate mousse in a small ramekin with whipped cream and a raspberry on top.
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3-Ingredient Tofu Chocolate Mousse

This tofu chocolate mousse recipe is a dessert game-changer! With just three ingredients, it's easy, nutritious, and endlessly customizable. Perfect for anyone following a vegan, gluten-free, or refined sugar-free lifestyle. Indulge in this creamy and satisfying high-protein dessert today!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • 1 food processor or high speed blender
  • 4 small bowls

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips melted
  • 1 (12-ounce) package silken tofu drained and patted dry (at room temperature!)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup

Instructions

  • Add all ingredient to a blender or food processor and blend until completely smooth. 
  • Pour the chocolate mousse into four small bowls, then cover each bowl with plastic wrap and transfer the mousse to the fridge.
  • Leave the chocolate mousse to firm up in the fridge for at least 1 hour, and up to 8 hours before serving.

Notes

Please make sure your silken tofu is at room temperature before combining it with the other ingredients. If the tofu is cold, it will cause the melted chocolate to harden and create a grainy texture in your chocolate mousse. Therefore, to avoid that, remove the tofu from the fridge at least 30 minutes before making this recipe!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 200kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 10g

This 5-ingredient protein cookie dough is a healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free treat packed with protein and sweetened with maple syrup. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for a post-workout snack or healthier dessert. Customize with your favorite mix-ins for a quick, delicious, and indulgent treat!

protein chocolate chip cookie dough in a small cup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Made with just 5 simple ingredients, it’s a healthier take on traditional cookie dough.
  • Packed with protein, making it perfect for a post-workout treat, quick snack, or fun dessert option.
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free, catering to various dietary preferences.
  • Quick and easy to make—no baking required, and ready in just minutes!

What You’ll Need to Make Protein Cookie Dough

Almond Flour: Almond flour serves as the base of this cookie dough, giving it a soft, buttery texture. It’s naturally gluten-free and rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, making it a nutritious alternative to traditional wheat flour.

Vanilla Protein Powder: The protein powder not only enhances the nutritional profile of the cookie dough but also adds a sweet, creamy flavor. Choose your favorite brand for the best results—plant-based or whey works perfectly.

Maple Syrup: This natural sweetener provides just the right amount of sweetness while keeping the recipe refined sugar-free. Plus, it helps bind the ingredients together.

Melted Coconut Oil (or Butter): Coconut oil adds richness and moisture to the dough. For a slightly different flavor, swap it for melted butter or vegan butter, depending on your dietary needs.

Chocolate Chips: The chocolate chips are the stars of the show, adding bursts of sweetness and indulgence. Use dark chocolate, sugar-free, or dairy-free chips to suit your preferences.

chocolate chip protein cookie dough on a spoon.

How to Make Protein Cookie Dough

  1. Mix the Dough: Add the almond flour, vanilla protein powder, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil to a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined and the dough forms a cohesive texture.
  2. Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips to distribute them evenly throughout the dough.
  3. Serve and Enjoy: That’s it! Your cookie dough is ready to eat. Scoop it straight from the bowl or portion it out into snack-sized servings.

Toppings and Variations

  • Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted dark chocolate or nut butter on top for extra decadence.
  • Add-Ins: Mix in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or dried fruit for a fun twist.
  • Seasonal Flavors: Sprinkle in cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or a dash of peppermint extract to suit the season.

Adjust This Recipe to Your Dietary Needs

Make it Dairy-Free: Ensure your protein powder and chocolate chips are dairy-free. Coconut oil is naturally dairy-free, so you’re already set!

Make it Vegan: Choose a vegan protein powder and chocolate chips. Maple syrup is already vegan-friendly, and coconut oil is an excellent alternative to butter.

Make it Keto: Replace the maple syrup with a keto-friendly liquid sweetener like monk fruit syrup. Use sugar-free chocolate chips for a low-carb treat.

Storage Instructions

Store your protein cookie dough in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, chill it for an hour before serving. For longer storage, freeze individual portions and thaw as needed.

5 ingredient edible protein chocolate chip cookie dough in a small cup with a spoon.
5 from 1 vote

5 Ingredient Edible Protein Cookie Dough

This 5-ingredient protein cookie dough is a healthy, gluten-free, and dairy-free treat packed with protein and sweetened with maple syrup. Ready in minutes, it’s perfect for a post-workout snack or healthier dessert. Customize with your favorite mix-ins for a quick, delicious, and indulgent treat!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small bowl

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup almond flour or oat flour
  • 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil or melted butter
  • 1/4 cup chocolate chips
  • 1-2 tablespoons milk, optional if needed for a less thick cookie dough

Instructions

  • Add all the ingredients except the chocolate chips to a large bowl and stir to combine.
  • Then, fold in the chocolate chips and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 190kcal | Carbohydrates: 11g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 14g | Sugar: 6g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy and Fast: Made with minimal ingredients and no baking required, this recipe comes together in minutes.
  • Healthier Dessert: Sweetened with maple syrup and packed with healthy fats from peanut butter and almond flour, this bark satisfies your sweet tooth while keeping it wholesome.
  • Customizable: You can switch up the flavors, toppings, and even the type of nut butter for a bark that’s truly your own.
Close up image of 4 ingredient peanut butter cup cookie dough bark.

What You’ll Need to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Bark

For the Cookie Dough Base:

  1. Almond Flour: The foundation of the bark, almond flour provides a soft, cookie-dough-like texture and is naturally gluten-free.
  2. Unsweetened Peanut Butter: Adds richness and flavor while binding the ingredients together. Make sure to use a drippy, natural peanut butter for the best results.
  3. Maple Syrup: Acts as the natural sweetener, giving the cookie dough a perfect touch of sweetness.

For the Chocolate Layer:

  1. Chocolate Chips: Melted chocolate creates a decadent top layer. I use Guittard Extra Dark Chocolate Chips in most of my recipes because they’re dairy-free, but rich and not-too-sweet.
  2. Chopped Peanuts (Optional): Add a delightful crunch and extra peanut flavor to the bark.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Bark

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, mix together the almond flour, peanut butter, and maple syrup until a soft dough forms.
  2. Shape the Bark: Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper. Place the dough on the paper and spread it evenly with your hands to form a large, flat rectangle.
  3. Melt the Chocolate: Heat the chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
  4. Assemble the Bark: Pour the melted chocolate over the dough, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top, if desired.
  5. Freeze and Serve: Place the bark in the freezer for at least 1 hour. When ready to enjoy, remove from the freezer and break or cut into pieces.
Overhead image of 4 ingredient peanut butter cup cookie dough bark cut into large pieces.

Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store the bark in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
  • Freezer: Keep leftovers in the freezer for up to 1 month. Simply remove pieces as needed and let them sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before eating.

Switch Up the Flavors of This Recipe

  • Add a Drizzle: Drizzle melted peanut butter or caramel over the chocolate layer before freezing for added flavor.
  • Toppings Galore: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt (I love this Maldon Flaky Sea Salt), crushed pretzels, or cacao nibs for a fun twist.
  • Different Nut Butter: Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a subtle flavor variation.
5 from 1 vote

Peanut Butter Cup Cookie Dough Bark

This peanut butter cup cookie dough bark is a quick and easy treat that’s not only delicious but also healthy! Made with just 4 simple ingredients, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan, and sweetened with maple syrup. It’s perfect for when you’re craving something sweet and indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re making it for yourself, your family, or a special occasion, this bark is sure to be a hit!
Print Rate
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Freezing Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Equipment

  • 1 small bowl
  • 1 small baking sheet

Ingredients

  • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons almond flour
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened creamy peanut butter
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 3/4 cup chocolate chips melted
  • chopped peanuts (optional) for topping

Instructions

  • Mix together the almond flour, peanut butter, and maple syrup in a bowl.
  • Line a small baking sheet or large plate with parchment paper, then place the cookie dough mixture on top of the parchment paper. Spread and flatten the mixture with your hands to form a large piece of cookie dough bark.
  • Melt the chocolate chips, then pour the melted chocolate over the bark. Spread the chocolate into an even layer, then place the bark in the freezer for at least one hour.
  • When ready to eat, remove the peanut butter cup cookie dough bark from the freezer and either cut or break into large pieces. Enjoy right away or store leftover bark in the freezer for later!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 293kcal | Carbohydrates: 21g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 21g | Sugar: 14g

I have to be honest, I’m not the biggest fan of pie. Especially around thanksgiving and christmas – I feel like the dessert table is 90% pies and none are gluten-free. :/ For the last few years I’ve been baking and bringing my own gluten-free desserts, like my gluten-free almond flour brownies, or my almond flour chocolate chip cookies which are always such a hit! But this year, I wanted a dessert that better fit the holiday/pie category, so I came up with the idea for healthy gluten-free pecan pie bars.

These bars are wayyy less daunting than a pie and so much easier to make! They require just 6 simple ingredients, one bowl, and a baking dish. But trust me when I tell you, they’re just as good as any pie (yup, I said it!!!!) and no one will ever guess how much healthier they are!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Ingredients: This recipe skips traditional ingredients like refined sugar and flour, making it gluten-free, grain-free, and dairy-free while retaining the classic flavors.
  • Easy and Quick: With a simple crust and filling, these bars are ready for the oven in under 15 minutes.
  • Versatile and Customizable: Add a splash of bourbon or chocolate chips for a twist on traditional pecan pie flavors.
overhead image of a healthy gluten-free pecan pie bar.

What You’ll Need to Make These Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars

Almond Flour: The base of our shortbread crust, almond flour provides a rich, buttery flavor and keeps these bars gluten-free and grain-free.

Coconut Oil: Used in both the crust and filling, coconut oil brings moisture and healthy fats to each bite.

Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that pairs beautifully with pecans, adding just the right amount of sweetness.

Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar gives the filling a subtle caramel-like flavor, perfect for that traditional pecan pie taste.

Eggs: These help bind the filling, creating that signature pecan pie texture that holds up well as bars.

Pecans: The star ingredient! Chopped pecans add crunch and warmth to every bite.

How to Make Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars

  1. Prepare the Crust: Mix all crust ingredients and press into a lined baking pan. Bake until golden brown and set aside.
  2. Make the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the filling ingredients, then fold in the chopped pecans.
  3. Assemble and Bake: Pour the filling over the baked crust and return to the oven until the filling is set. Let cool before slicing.
healthy gluten-free pecan pie bar with a bite taken out.

Can I Make These Vegan?

Yes! Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (2 tablespoons flaxseed meal mixed with 6 tablespoons water) and allow the mixture to sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Switch Up the Flavor of Your Pecan Pie Bars

For a unique twist, try adding:

  • Bourbon: Add 1 tablespoon for a rich, warm flavor.
  • Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle ½ cup over the crust before adding the filling for a chocolatey surprise.

Storage Tips

Store these pecan pie bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

three healthy gluten free pecan pie bars stacked on top of each other.
4.50 from 6 votes

Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars

These gluten-free pecan pie bars are the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-make, healthier bar form. Made with an almond flour shortbread crust, naturally sweetened filling, and crunchy pecans, this recipe is gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and made with just 6 main ingredients!
Print Pin Rate
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 servings

Equipment

  • 1 large bowl
  • 1 9×9-inch baking pan

Ingredients

For the shortbread crust:

  • 2 cups almond flour
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional, but recommended

For the pecan pie filling:

  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract optional, but recommended
  • 2 eggs at room temperature (very important!)
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans raw and unsalted

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° Fahrenheit and line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Add all shortbread crust ingredients to a large bowl and mix to combine. Then, transfer the crust to your prepared baking pan and press the crust down into an even layer over the base of the dish. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
  • While the crust bakes, make the filling by whisking together the coconut sugar, coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and eggs. Once that’s combined, mix in the chopped pecans.
  • When the crust is finished baking, remove it from the oven and pour the pecan pie filling mixture over the crust. Bake again for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set. Remove the bars from the oven and let cool for at least 30 minutes in the pan.
  • Once the pan is cool, transfer the bars to the fridge to chill for about an hour. Then, remove the bars from the pan and cut into 16 squares. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 1 week!

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 272kcal | Carbohydrates: 44g | Protein: 2.5g | Fat: 10g | Sugar: 26g