This is one of the sweetest healthy cookie recipes you'll ever taste, yet it doesn't have any sugar or artificial sugar substitutes. Even better: There is no oil or butter in this recipe, either. These no bake cookies get all their rich flavor from dates, coconut and ground almonds.
Some people even say these cookies taste a bit like Hostess Crumb Donuts, though it's hard to imagine comparing such a healthy cookie recipe with a product that's loaded with sugar, trans fats and preservatives. Still, the flavor isn't far off base. And if it helps you get the kids to try these cookies, then by all means, call them whatever you like.
These cookies make an attractive addition to a cookie assortment dessert tray or a holiday cookie swap. And remember: There's no need to tell your guests they're healthy -- just let them enjoy!
Vegan Date Coconut Balls
- 1 cup raw almonds
- 1 generous cup soft pitted dates (it's okay if it's a bit more)
- 1/2 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- pinch of sea salt
- 1/2 cup finely shredded zucchini squash (use the fine side of a box grater)
- 1 cup shredded flaked coconut, divided
Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or waxed paper.
Place the almonds in a food processor fitted with the steel blade and process into fine crumbs. Add dates, a few at a time, processing well after each addition. Add vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon and sea salt. At first the mixture will just look like bread crumbs, then it will come together in a ball. If it doesn't come together, add a few extra dates.
Remove the cookie dough from the food processor and mix in the shredded zucchini and a half a cup of the flaked coconut with your hands until well combined. Form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place the remaining half cup of coconut on a plate and roll each ball in the coconut to coat. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and freeze several hours until the balls are firm. Remove them from the freezer and serve thawed.
Note: You can store these cookies in the freezer or refrigerator. They taste best when served cold, but not frozen.
Makes 15 cookie balls.
Per cookie: 145 calories, 6 g fat (2 g saturated fat), 0 mg cholesterol, 22 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 3 g protein, 1% Vitamin A, 1% Vitamin C, 4% calcium, 4% iron
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