NO BAKE TURTLE BROWNIES (VEGAN, GLUTEN-FREE)

 These no bake turtle brownies are vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for chocolate lovers! Enjoy a soft and chewy no bake brownie topped with medjool date caramel, crushed pecans, and mini chocolate chips. They are easy to make, contain wholesome ingredients, and naturally sweetened.

INGREDIENTS

Brownies:

• 1.5 cups raw walnuts
• 1.5 cups raw almonds
• 2 + 1/2 cup medjool dates, packed
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt

Caramel:

• 2 cups medjool dates, packed
• 2–4 tbsp water, as needed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/8 tsp salt

Toppings:

• 1/2 cup crushed pecans
• 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips

INSTRUCTIONS

• Create the brownie layer: add walnuts, almonds, pitted medjool dates, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to a food processor. Process/pulse until a sticky brownie dough is formed.
• Line a square baking dish with parchment paper. Use clean hands to press the brownie dough across the base of the dish. 
• Create the caramel layer: add pitted medjool dates, water, vanilla extract, and salt to a food processor. Process/pulse until a smooth, caramel-like spread is formed. *See notes below. 
• Spread the caramel across the brownie layer. Then, add crushed pecans on top. Gently press them into the caramel layer. Next, add mini chocolate chips on top. Gently press them over the pecans. 
• Freeze the turtle brownies for 1 hour. After, slice and serve.