Get ready to indulge in a world of sweet and savory delights with these 18 decadent vegan date recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking for some inspiration to make your plant-based diet more exciting, this collection of date-based treats has something for everyone.
From classic desserts like tarts and cakes to healthier snack options like energy balls and smoothies, we’ve got it all covered. And the best part? Each recipe features the natural sweetness of dates as its star ingredient, making them perfect for anyone looking for a refined sugar-free treat.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these scrumptious recipes, exploring the unique flavors and textures that make them so irresistible. Whether you’re in the mood for something chocolatey, nutty, or simply sweet, there’s no doubt you’ll find at least one (or 18!) date-based recipe to satisfy your cravings.
Vegan Date Caramel Tart
This vegan date caramel tart is a game-changer for those looking for a sweet treat that’s free from animal products. The combination of soft dates, gooey caramel, and crunchy nuts is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups pitted dates
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted vegan butter, melted
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a blender, combine dates, water, maple syrup, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the date mixture into a pre-baked tart crust (use a store-bought or homemade crust).
4. Sprinkle oats and almonds on top of the date mixture.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the nuts and dates.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Covered Stuffed Dates
Elevate your snacking game with this indulgent treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the richness of chocolate and the crunch of nuts.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 pitted dates
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Optional: sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped nuts and cream cheese until well combined.
3. Stuff each date with about 1/4 teaspoon of the nut mixture.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until slightly caramelized.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Dip each date into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the date.
7. Place the chocolate-covered dates on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (baking), plus refrigeration time
Vegan Date and Nut Energy Balls
These no-bake bites are packed with nutritious ingredients and natural sweetness from dates, making them the perfect snack for a quick energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, soaked in water for at least 4 hours
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Drain and rinse the dates.
2. In a food processor, blend the dates until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the oats, almonds, honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to the processor.
4. Process until well combined and a dough forms.
5. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None, no baking required!
Date-Sweetened Vegan Banana Bread
A sweet treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack, this vegan banana bread is made with natural sweetness from dates and no refined sugars. The result is a moist and flavorful loaf that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup date syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 teaspoon 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, date syrup, and melted coconut oil. Stir until smooth.
3. Add flour, baking powder, salt, and walnuts (if using). Mix until just combined.
4. Pour in vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Date and Oat Breakfast Bars
Start your day off right with these chewy, date-filled breakfast bars that are perfect for a quick morning snack or post-workout fuel.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup medjool dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine oats, dates, and maple syrup. Blend until well combined and slightly sticky.
3. Add coconut oil, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. Blend until a dough forms.
4. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Date and Walnut Loaf
A sweet and aromatic loaf that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth of spices, perfectly complemented by the crunch of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and honey. Stir until smooth.
4. Add chopped dates and walnuts to the wet mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Date and Almond Butter Smoothie
Kick-start your day with a deliciously creamy and nutritious smoothie that’s packed with natural sweetness from dates and the richness of almond butter. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for breakfast or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 2 Medjool dates, pitted
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the banana, dates, and almond butter. Blend until smooth.
2. Add the almond milk and vanilla extract. Blend until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or creaminess as needed.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately. If desired, add ice cubes for a thicker texture.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Date-Sweetened Vegan Chocolate Mousse
This rich and creamy vegan chocolate mousse is a game-changer for those looking for a healthier dessert option. Made with dates as the natural sweetener, this recipe is not only delicious but also free from refined sugars.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted Medjool dates
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Soak the dates in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and blend the dates with 1/4 cup of plant-based milk until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Fold the date mixture into the cocoa mixture until well combined.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required
Vegan Sticky Date Pudding
A sweet and indulgent treat that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings. This vegan version of the classic sticky date pudding is made with natural ingredients and is free from animal products.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup plant-based milk (such as soy or almond)
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon vegan butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine dates, plant-based milk, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Add vanilla extract and melted vegan butter. Blend until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, such as coconut whipped cream or maple syrup.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Date and Coconut Bliss Balls
A sweet and indulgent treat that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the creamy richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped dates and shredded coconut.
2. Add the rolled oats, honey, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Use your hands or a spoon 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.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! These bliss balls are best served chilled, straight from the fridge.
Vegan Date and Tahini Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the natural sweetness of dates and the creamy richness of tahini. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegan butter (softened)
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 1/4 cup dates, pitted and chopped
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, flour, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together vegan butter and tahini until smooth.
4. Add chopped dates, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the wet ingredients; mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Date-Sweetened Vegan Apple Crumble
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth of autumn spices to create a delicious vegan apple crumble. Perfect for a cozy evening or a harvest celebration, this dessert is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup pitted dates, soaked in water until soft
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, soaked dates, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, almond flour, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract.
5. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Vegan Date and Pecan Pie
Vegan Date and Pecan Pie Recipe
Rich and indulgent, this vegan date and pecan pie is a perfect treat for any occasion. A combination of sweet dates, crunchy pecans, and flaky pastry makes for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vegan pastry dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon non-dairy milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a blender, combine dates, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped pecans and salt.
4. Roll out vegan pastry dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Place the date mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges together to seal.
7. Brush with non-dairy milk and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Date and Peanut Butter Cups
Elevate your snacking game with these rich and creamy Chocolate Date and Peanut Butter Cups, featuring the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup (50g) pitted dates, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, mix peanut butter and honey until creamy. Fold in chopped dates and salt.
4. Spoon a small amount of peanut butter mixture into each muffin liner, followed by a dollop of melted chocolate.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Vegan Date and Chia Seed Pudding
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of dates with the nutty flavor of chia seeds, creating a nutritious and delicious vegan pudding. Perfect as a snack or breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dried dates, pitted
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or coconut)
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, soak the dates in the plant-based milk for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the chia seeds, maple syrup, and salt.
3. Add the soaked dates to the chia seed mixture and stir well to combine.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the pudding to set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with additional dates if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (soaking time)
Date-Sweetened Vegan Pumpkin Bread
This moist and flavorful bread combines the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth of pumpkin, making it a perfect fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dates, pitted
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup melted vegan butter or oil
– Optional: chopped nuts or seeds for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a blender, combine dates, pumpkin puree, flour, oats, baking powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Add apple cider vinegar, non-dairy milk, and melted vegan butter or oil. Blend until well combined.
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. Let cool on wire rack before slicing.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Date and Cashew Cheesecake
Rich and creamy, this vegan cheesecake combines the natural sweetness of dates with the subtle nutty flavor of cashews. Perfect for a special occasion or just a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pitted dates
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (gluten-free)
– 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
Instructions:
1. Soak the dates and cashews in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and blend the soaked ingredients with maple syrup, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Press the graham cracker crumbs into a springform pan lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with melted coconut oil.
4. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the crust and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
5. Release the springform pan sides and slice to serve.
Cooking Time: None (chilled dessert)
Enjoy your delicious Vegan Date and Cashew Cheesecake!
Date and Cinnamon Overnight Oats
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast by combining the natural sweetness of dates with the warmth of cinnamon in these overnight oats.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 date, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Pinch of vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a jar or container, combine oats, almond milk, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add the chopped date and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir gently to distribute evenly.
3. Refrigerate overnight for at least 4 hours or until morning.
4. In the morning, give the oats a quick stir and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is designed to cook slowly in the fridge while you sleep.
Enjoy your delicious Date and Cinnamon Overnight Oats!
Summary
Discover a world of deliciously decadent vegan date recipes! From sweet treats like Chocolate Covered Stuffed Dates and Date-Sweetened Vegan Banana Bread to savory delights like Spiced Date and Walnut Loaf, these mouthwatering creations will satisfy your cravings. Plus, indulge in indulgent desserts like Vegan Sticky Date Pudding and Date- Sweetened Vegan Chocolate Mousse. And don’t forget to try the energizing bites like Vegan Date and Nut Energy Balls or refreshing drinks like Vegan Date and Almond Butter Smoothie. Get ready to delight in these 18 scrumptious vegan date recipes!