Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by pitting your Medjool dates. If your dates are a bit dry, place them in a small bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 10 minutes to soften them up. Drain them thoroughly before proceeding.1 cup pitted Medjool dates
- In the bowl of a food processor, combine the soaked and drained dates, almond butter (or peanut butter), unsweetened applesauce, vanilla extract, and the very well-drained cottage cheese.1 cup pitted Medjool dates, 1/4 cup almond butter, 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup full-fat cottage cheese, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- To the food processor, add the unsweetened cocoa powder and a pinch of salt. The salt helps to enhance the chocolate flavor.1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, pinch salt
- Pulse the food processor a few times to break down the dates, then process continuously until a thick, sticky dough forms. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is incorporated. The mixture should be cohesive enough to hold its shape when pressed.
- Take small portions of the dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into bite-sized balls between your palms. If the dough is too sticky, you can slightly dampen your hands with water.
- If you're using toppings like sugar-free chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut, you can gently press them onto the outside of the brownie bites now. For chocolate chips, you can also stir them into the dough in the last few pulses of the food processor.sugar-free chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded unsweetened coconut
- Place the formed brownie bites on a plate or parchment-lined baking sheet. Transfer them to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up and set.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2-3 months.
