Recipe: No Bake Cookies for the Holidays

These molasses bites are reminiscent of gingerbread and filled with fiber and protein.


no bake cookies

Photo by Asia Bradlee

When it comes to holiday baking, some of us are more talented than others. And even if you do like to bake, it can sometimes be too hectic during this time of year to spend hours baking cookies. That’s where these no bake cookies comes in handy.

These small molasses bites are filled with fiber and protein to help keep you full, while also satisfying your sweet tooth. And did you know that blackstrap molasses also has some health benefits? It contains a healthy dose of calcium, iron, and potassium. Just be careful not to overdo it because it still has a high sugar content.

I recommend using an all-natural vegan protein powder to keep these bites as free from artificial ingredients as possible, but use whatever works best for you. If you prefer not to use protein powder, just sub the scoop with 1/4 cup oat flour. Personally, I think that these bites taste best frozen, but if cool or room temperature is more appealing, go for it! Either way, they’re a festive and easy way to get into the holiday spirit. 

Ingredients

  • 1 cup packed dates
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
  • 2 tbs almond butter
  • 1 tbs blackstrap molasses
  • 1 tbs maple syrup
  • 1 tbs cinnamon
  • 1 tbs ginger
  • 2 tsp nutmeg

Directions 

Soak the dates in warm water and set aside.

In a blender, blend the rolled oats so that they turn into a flour. Mix in the cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

Blend the dates with a touch of warm water until they turn into a paste. You may have to pause blending and scrape down the sides.

Once the dates are blended, mix them with the almond butter and molasses until combined. Add the oat and spice mixture and mix thoroughly.

Roll the dough into balls and store in the refrigerator or freezer. If desired, roll the balls in a layer of sugar to enhance their presentation.

The balls should last up to four months in the freezer.