Vegan Gingerbread Bites

These remind me of one of my all-time favourite desserts, gingerbread cake, except for they’re a whole lot easier and quicker to make. They’re also healthier, with just four main ingredients these bites are pretty virtuous and are perfect to satisfy an after-dinner sweet tooth or to act as a bridge snack to hold you over between lunch and dinner.

Here are my tips for snack bite success:

Invest in a food processor: A food processor is really the only option here, but the good news is there’s good ones out there that are inexpensive. Two I’ve owned are from Hamilton Beach and Cuisinart, and I would definitely recommend. They also make an excellent gift.
Spring for the good dates: Medjool or bust! These dates are softer, plumper and have a carmel-y taste that makes the difference, especially when there’s so few ingredients. Other dates will be too dry for this recipe.
If the mixture looks a bit crumbly after adding the dates, try pulsing it a few more times in the food processor, it will usually come together. If it still seems to dry, you can add a splash of almond or other plant-based milk and pulse together a few time to bring it together.
Roll the mixture into balls using damp hands it will help create a smooth surface and prevent it from sticking to your fingers.

This also acts as a great base recipe where you can swap in different add-ins to create new flavours. Think cocoa powder + peppermint extract for a peppermint patty vibe or shredded coconut + grated carrots for a snack that’s reminiscent of your favourite carrot cake.

Although the spice in these bites gives them a festive feel, I would eat them all year round.

100g of walnut pieces (about 1 cup)

1/2 cup rolled oats

1 cup pitted medjool dates (about 10-12)

3 tsp cinnamon

2 tsp ground ginger

1/8 tsp ground cloves

1/8 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

1 tbsp fancy molasses

Add the walnuts and oats to the bowl of a food processor and process until finely ground. Add the spices and salt and pulse a few times to combine.
Add the pitted dates and and continue to process until they break down and are well combined with the oats and nuts. Add the vanilla and molasses and process again until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed between two fingers.
With damp hands, roll the mixture into 12 balls. Store the bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.