Vegan Gluten-Free Coconut Date Cookies
These Vegan Gluten-Free Coconut Date Cookies are OUT OF THIS WORLD delicious!! They are made with just three simple ingredients—Medjool dates, shredded coconut, and an optional drizzle of dark chocolate. Enjoy them raw for a chewy bite or bake them for a firmer, toasty texture. Perfect for an afternoon snack, lunchbox treat, or post-workout energy boost!
Nutritional Benefits
Medjool Dates – Naturally sweet and incredibly nutritious, these chewy gems are a true powerhouse of plant-based energy. Not only are Medjool dates high in dietary fiber, which supports digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels, but they’re also packed with essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants. As a result, they make an excellent whole-food sweetener for energy-boosting snacks and healthy desserts. Furthermore, their natural sugars provide a quick, clean source of fuel, making them ideal for pre-workout bites, on-the-go snacks, or kid-friendly treats.
Unsweetened Shredded Coconut – This wholesome ingredient is not just delicious but also incredibly nourishing. It’s a rich source of healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which help support brain health, boost metabolism, and deliver sustained energy. In addition, it contains a good amount of fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied. For anyone following a whole-food plant-based or gluten-free diet, unsweetened coconut is a flavorful and functional ingredient that enhances both texture and nutrition.
Dark Chocolate – Choose high-quality dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) to add a touch of indulgence with real health benefits. Dark chocolate is loaded with antioxidants like flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and even boost mood and mental clarity. It’s a delicious way to add richness and depth to your plant-based baking without refined sugar.
Customize These Vegan Gluten-Free Coconut Date Cookies
Add-ins:
- Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans) – Add crunch and healthy fats.
- Chia or flax seeds – Boost fiber and omega-3s.
- Cinnamon or vanilla extract – Enhance flavor naturally.
- Dried fruit (raisins, cranberries, or goji berries) – Add natural sweetness and extra nutrients.
- Nut or seed butter (almond, peanut, or sunflower) – Make them richer and creamier.
Substitutions:
- Dates → Dried figs or raisins – Similar sweetness and texture.
- Shredded coconut → Ground almonds or oats – Alternative texture with fiber and healthy fats.
- Dark chocolate → Cacao nibs or carob chips – A less processed, lower-sugar option.
More Healthy Snacks You Will Love
- Chocolate Mango Smoothie Bowl
- Creamy Chocolate Avocado Smoothie
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Smoothie
- No-Bake Vegan Raspberry Chocolate Discs
- Banana Cherry Orange Smoothie
Vegan Gluten-Free Coconut Date Cookies
Equipment
- Food processor
Ingredients
- 1 cup soft Medjool dates pitted
- 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
- 2 tbsp dark chocolate, melted optional
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend dates until they form a sticky paste. Add shredded coconut and pulse until well combined.
- Roll into small balls, then flatten into cookie shapes.
- Bake (Optional) – If you want a firmer texture, bake at 325°F (160°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Once cooled, add melted chocoate.
- Chill & Enjoy – Let cool (or refrigerate for a firmer bite) and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
These were so yummy!! I have made something similar before but this is the first recipe where I actually backed them. It gave them this yummy texture and flavor. I loved the melted chocolate on top with the combination of the warm cookie. So good!! Can’t wait to make them again!