Pin it
Cosmic Brownie Bites are my solution when I crave something chocolatey but want a treat made with real, whole ingredients. These fudgy little bites blend medjool dates, nuts, cocoa, and a dash of fun from candy-coated chocolate chips. They are quick to make no bake and perfect for sharing at parties or stashing in your fridge for a pop of energy any time.
I first whipped these up for a kids birthday when I needed a snack that was both parent approved and exciting for kids. Now I make them anytime I want to channel a nostalgic treat with a better nutrition profile.
Ingredients
- Medjool dates: Bring sweet caramel flavor and create the fudgy base. Choose soft sticky dates for the best binding
- Almonds: Pack in protein and crunch. Opt for raw unsalted almonds for richer results
- Walnuts: Deliver earthy flavor and healthy fats. Look for fresh nuts without a bitter smell for best taste
- Shredded coconut: Gives subtle chewiness and a hint of tropical flavor
- Cocoa powder: Infuses deep chocolaty taste. Choose unsweetened natural cocoa for the most richness
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with warmth
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances chocolate intensity
- Maple syrup: Adds extra sticking power and sweetness if needed. Test your dates first they may be sticky and sweet enough on their own
- Candy coated chocolate chips: Add that signature cosmic crunch and a pop of color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Base:
- Add pitted medjool dates almonds walnuts shredded coconut cocoa powder vanilla extract and salt to a food processor. Pulse several times to begin breaking down the nuts and dates
- Blend to a Dough:
- Continue processing on high until the mixture clumps and forms a sticky dough. Stop and scrape the bowl occasionally to make sure everything is evenly processed. If the mixture is dry or crumbly drizzle in one tablespoon of maple syrup and process again. Add another tablespoon only if needed for moisture
- Mix in the Fun:
- Spoon the brownie dough into a bowl. Scatter the candy coated chocolate chips on top. Use your hands or a spatula to mix in the chips so colorful bits are evenly distributed
- Shape into Bites:
- Scoop a tablespoon of dough for each bite. Roll between your palms to create smooth balls about the size of a large marble. The dough should easily hold together and feel fudgy
- Chill or Enjoy:
- Brownie bites can be enjoyed immediately but will firm up if chilled for 15 minutes in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container
Pin it
My favorite part of these bites is the surprise crunch and color from the candy coated chips. Whenever we make these my youngest insists on pressing extra chips into the top for that classic cosmic look and it always makes my family smile.
Storage Tips
Brownie bites keep best in an airtight container in the fridge where they stay fresh for one week. If you want them on hand for longer freeze them on a baking sheet and then transfer to a container for up to two months. Pop them straight from the freezer for a firmer treat like a mini brownie truffle.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have walnuts try pecans or cashews for a similar creamy texture. Sunflower seeds can work if you need a nut free version. You can skip coconut if you prefer just add a couple more tablespoons of nuts or dates to balance moisture. Any chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate will give you the pop of cosmic crunch even without the colored candies.
Serving Suggestions
These are always the first to go at parties because they look so much like classic cosmic brownies but made portable. I love tucking a few into lunchboxes for a sweet surprise or setting them out on a snack board. For an extra special touch roll the bites in additional cocoa powder or coconut before serving.
Pin it
Every time I make these I am reminded of making traditional brownies with my family as a kid but now it feels even better to know every bite is nourishing and brimming with simple joy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use other nuts besides almonds and walnuts?
Yes, pecans or cashews can easily substitute for almonds and walnuts. Choose your favorite for a custom flavor.
- → How do I make the mixture stick together better?
If the dough feels dry or crumbly, add a tablespoon or two of maple syrup and blend again for a stickier texture.
- → Are the bites gluten-free?
All listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making these bites a great snack option for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- → Do these need to be refrigerated?
For best freshness and firmness, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- → Can I skip the candy coated chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to omit or replace them with regular chocolate chips, cacao nibs, or dried fruit pieces.