Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Raw Vegan Cocoa Bliss Brownies?
They are a rich, chocolatey, no-bake dessert made from unprocessed, whole-food ingredients like walnuts, dates, and raw cacao.
Are these brownies suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, these brownies are 100% vegan and contain no animal products.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses nuts and fruit instead of flour.
Do I need to bake these brownies?
No, these are raw, no-bake brownies that set in the refrigerator.
What are the four main ingredients?
The main ingredients are raw walnuts, pitted dates, raw cacao powder, and virgin coconut oil.
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of raw cacao?
Yes, you can substitute raw cacao with unsweetened cocoa powder, though raw cacao is preferred for its nutritional benefits.
What kind of walnuts should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of raw, chopped walnuts.
Do the dates need to be pitted?
Yes, ensure your dates are pitted before processing to protect your food processor blades and ensure a smooth texture.
Why is coconut oil included in this raw recipe?
Coconut oil adds a delightful creaminess and helps the brownies hold their shape once they are chilled.
What type of coconut oil is best?
Virgin, unrefined, and cold-pressed coconut oil is recommended for the best flavor and quality.
How long do I pulse the mixture in the food processor?
Pulse for approximately 30 seconds, or until the mixture sticks together when you pinch a small amount.
How can I achieve a cake-like consistency?
To get a cake-like texture, stop pulsing the food processor early before the mixture becomes too dense.
How do I get a chewy brownie texture?
For a chewier texture, process the ingredients for a longer duration in the food processor.
What size pan should I use?
An 8x8 inch baking pan is ideal for this recipe.
Should I line the baking pan?
Yes, lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the brownies out for cutting.
How long do the brownies need to refrigerate?
They should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to set properly.
Can I eat the mixture immediately without chilling?
Yes, the mixture is safe to eat right from the processor, though it will be more crumbly than chilled brownies.
How should I store the finished brownies?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and firm.
Can these brownies be frozen?
Yes, they freeze very well and can be kept in the freezer for a quick, chilled snack.
Is there any added refined sugar in this recipe?
No, these brownies are naturally sweetened using dates.
Can I replace walnuts with other nuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with raw pecans or almonds if you prefer.
What should I do if the mixture is too dry?
If the mixture won't stick together, add one or two more dates or a tiny bit more coconut oil and pulse again.
What should I do if the mixture is too sticky?
If it is too sticky, you can pulse in a few more walnuts or a teaspoon of cacao powder to adjust the texture.
Are these brownies a healthy snack option?
Yes, they are packed with wholesome nutrients from nuts and fruit, making them a great alternative to processed desserts.
How do I cut the brownies neatly?
Chill the block for the full 2 hours, then use the parchment liner to lift it out of the pan before slicing with a sharp knife.
Can I add sea salt to the recipe?
Yes, a pinch of sea salt can enhance the chocolate flavor and balance the sweetness of the dates.
Is this recipe considered plant-based?
Yes, the recipe uses only plant-derived ingredients.
Are these brownies high in fiber?
Yes, both walnuts and dates provide a good amount of dietary fiber.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch for parties or meal prep.
What is the primary benefit of raw cacao?
Raw cacao is rich in antioxidants and provides a deep, natural chocolate flavor without the additives found in processed chocolate.