Cosmic Brownie Bites have been a nostalgic treat for me since childhood, bringing back memories of school lunchboxes and sweet after-school snacks. I’ve always loved the classic Little Debbie version, but I wanted to create a healthier, no-bake alternative that still delivers that fudgy, chocolatey goodness. These homemade Cosmic Brownie Bites capture all the joy of the original in a wholesome, easy-to-make package. They’re the perfect bite-sized Cosmic Brownies for satisfying that sweet craving without any guilt, and they’re so simple to whip up. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Cosmic Brownie Bites
I know you’re going to adore these Cosmic Brownie Bites for so many reasons. They’re a game-changer if you crave that classic chocolate treat but want a healthier option. Here’s why they’ll become your new favorite:
- They taste incredibly fudgy and rich, just like the classic, but without the guilt!
- This is an incredibly easy Cosmic Brownie Bites recipe, ready in just 10 minutes. No baking required!
- They’re packed with wholesome ingredients, making them vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.
- Perfect for meal prep, these bites can be stored for days, making healthy snacking effortless.
- They’re budget-friendly, using simple pantry staples you likely already have.
- Kids and adults alike will devour these, making them a fantastic family-friendly dessert or snack.
- It’s truly an easy Cosmic Brownie Bites recipe that fits into any busy schedule.
Ingredients for Homemade Cosmic Brownie Bites
Creating these delightful Cosmic Brownie Bites starts with a few simple, wholesome ingredients. I love how these components come together to form the perfect texture for fudgy brownie bites, capturing that classic flavor without any baking required. You’ll be amazed at how easily these come together!
- 1 and 1/2 cups medjool dates, packed – these are key for natural sweetness and binding the bites together.
- 1 cup almonds – contribute to the rich, nutty base and healthy fats.
- 1 cup walnuts – add another layer of texture and flavor to these delicious bites.
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut – for a subtle tropical note and added chewiness.
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder – essential for that deep, chocolatey flavor that makes these truly fudgy brownie bites.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract – enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 tsp salt – balances the sweetness and brings out the chocolate.
- 1-2 tbsp maple syrup (only as needed) – I use this sparingly, only if the mixture needs a little extra stickiness.
- 1/3 cup candy coated chocolate chips – these are what give your Cosmic Brownie Bites that iconic, colorful look!
How to Make Cosmic Brownie Bites
Making these no-bake Cosmic Brownie Bites is incredibly simple and satisfying. You won’t even need to turn on your oven! I love how quick these come together, making them the perfect solution for a last-minute craving or a healthy treat for the kids. Let’s get started on creating these delightful chocolate Cosmic Brownie snacks.
- Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. I always find it helpful to measure everything out beforehand, especially when working with a food processor. This ensures a smooth and efficient process for your homemade Cosmic Brownie Bites.
- Step 2: Add the medjool dates, almonds, walnuts, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to your food processor. I recommend starting with the dates first, then adding the drier ingredients on top.
- Step 3: Blend the mixture until a sticky dough begins to form. You’ll notice the ingredients breaking down and clumping together. It should be pliable enough to roll into balls. If your dough is too crumbly and not sticking, don’t worry! This is where the maple syrup comes in.
- Step 4: If needed, add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the food processor. Blend again until the dough is sticky and holds together when pressed between your fingers. I usually only need a small amount, if any, as the dates are quite sticky on their own. This extra step ensures your Cosmic Brownie Bites have the perfect texture.
- Step 5: Transfer the brownie dough from the food processor to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Now for the fun part – adding the iconic candy-coated chocolate chips! These really transform your healthy mixture into those familiar chocolate Cosmic Brownie snacks.
- Step 6: Add the candy-coated chocolate chips to the brownie dough in the bowl. Using clean hands, gently mix them into the dough until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the chocolate chips to remain distinct.
- Step 7: Now, it’s time to form your Cosmic Brownie Bites! Scoop out small portions of the dough, about 1 tablespoon each, and roll them between your palms to create bite-sized balls. I aim for about 20 uniform bites. Place them on a plate or a parchment-lined tray.
- Step 8: Once all your bites are rolled, you can enjoy them immediately! For an even firmer texture, I sometimes pop them in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before serving. These delicious chocolate Cosmic Brownie snacks are perfect for satisfying any sweet craving.
Pro Tips for the Best Cosmic Brownie Bites
I’ve made these Cosmic Brownie Bites countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way to ensure they turn out perfectly every time. These expert tips will help you achieve the best texture and flavor, making your homemade mini Cosmic Brownies truly irresistible.
- Always use fresh, soft Medjool dates. If they’re a bit dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain thoroughly before blending.
- Don’t over-process the mixture. You want it to come together into a sticky dough, not a paste. Stop as soon as it forms a ball in the food processor.
- If your dough is too sticky to roll, chill it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. This makes handling much easier for your Cosmic Brownie Bites.
- For the best flavor, use high-quality cocoa powder. It really makes a difference in the richness of these fudgy brownie bites.
What’s the secret to perfect Mini Cosmic Brownies?
The real secret to perfectly fudgy and chewy Cosmic Brownie Bites lies in the dates and the processing. Using soft, fresh Medjool dates ensures natural sweetness and binding. Don’t over-process; you want a slightly coarse texture, not a completely smooth paste. This gives your bite-sized Cosmic Brownies that ideal chew.
Can I make Cosmic Brownie Bites ahead of time?
Absolutely! These Cosmic Brownie Bites are fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the dough and roll the bites up to 3-4 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They actually taste even better after a day or two, as the flavors meld together beautifully.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cosmic Brownie Bites?
One common mistake is using dry dates, which results in crumbly dough. Always use soft, fresh Medjool dates. Another pitfall is over-processing, which can make the texture too smooth; blend just until the dough forms. Finally, don’t forget to chill your dough if it’s too sticky to roll, ensuring perfectly formed Cosmic Brownie Bites.
Best Ways to Serve Cosmic Brownie Bites
I find these Cosmic Brownie Bites are incredibly versatile! They’re perfect as a quick snack, but they also shine when presented as a delightful dessert. Since they’re naturally sweet and rich, you don’t need much to make them feel special. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy them:
- For a simple treat, I often just grab one or two straight from the fridge. They’re excellent on their own, especially if you’re looking for a healthy pick-me-up throughout the day.
- To elevate them into a full-fledged Cosmic Brownie dessert, I love serving them alongside a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream. A sprinkle of extra candy-coated chocolate chips on top makes them extra festive.
- They also make a fantastic addition to a healthy snack platter for parties or gatherings. Arrange them with fresh berries, nuts, and perhaps some dark chocolate squares for a colorful and satisfying spread.
Nutrition Facts for Cosmic Brownie Bites
I find it incredibly helpful to know the nutritional breakdown of my favorite treats, and these Cosmic Brownie Bites are no exception. Here’s an estimate per serving, which for this recipe is one delicious brownie bite:
- Calories: 152
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 60mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. I always recommend checking your own labels for precise figures.
How to Store and Reheat Cosmic Brownie Bites
One of the best things about these Cosmic Brownie Bites is how well they store, making them perfect for meal prep or having a healthy snack on hand whenever a craving strikes! I always make a big batch so I have delicious brownie mini treats ready to go.
Once you’ve made your Cosmic Brownie Bites, allow them to set for a few minutes if they feel a bit soft. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep beautifully at room temperature for up to 3 days, but I prefer to store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their firm, fudgy texture, especially in warmer climates.
For longer-term storage, these Cosmic Brownie Bites freeze exceptionally well! Place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the frozen brownie mini treats to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, or pop them in the fridge overnight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cosmic Brownie Bites
What are Cosmic Brownie Bites exactly?
These Cosmic Brownie Bites are my healthy, no-bake take on the classic Little Debbie dessert. They’re bite-sized, fudgy treats made with wholesome ingredients like dates, nuts, and cocoa, topped with colorful candy-coated chocolate chips. They offer all the nostalgic flavor of the original but are vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free.
Are these Cosmic Brownie Bites suitable for special diets?
Yes, absolutely! I designed these Cosmic Brownie Bites to be incredibly inclusive. They are naturally vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free. This makes them a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions or anyone looking for a healthier alternative to traditional baked goods. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious chocolate treat.
Can I customize the flavor of these Cosmic Brownie Bites?
I love experimenting with flavors, and you totally can with these Cosmic Brownie Bites! While the base for these fudgy brownie bites is perfect as is, feel free to get creative. You could add a touch of peppermint extract for a festive twist, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick. Another idea is to mix in different types of nuts or seeds for added texture and nutrients.
Where can I find the candy-coated chocolate chips for these Cosmic Brownie Bites?
You can usually find candy-coated chocolate chips, often called “rainbow chips” or “sprinkle chips,” in the baking aisle of most major grocery stores. I’ve also had luck finding them at specialty baking stores or online. These are what give your Cosmic Brownie Bites their signature colorful look, so they’re worth seeking out!
Variations of Cosmic Brownie Bites You Can Try
I absolutely love how adaptable these Cosmic Brownie Bites are! While the original recipe is fantastic, sometimes I like to experiment with different flavors or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try to make these treats uniquely yours:
- Nut-Free Version: If you have nut allergies or just prefer to avoid them, you can easily make these Cosmic Brownie Bites nut-free. Substitute the almonds and walnuts with an equal amount of sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
- Added Protein: For an extra boost, I sometimes add a tablespoon of my favorite plant-based protein powder (vanilla or chocolate flavor) to the food processor with the other ingredients. This makes them even more satisfying after a workout.
- Citrus Zest Infusion: For a bright, refreshing twist, try adding 1-2 teaspoons of orange or lemon zest to the mixture. The citrus really brightens up the chocolate flavor in these Gluten-free Cosmic Brownie Bites.
- Different Toppings: Instead of candy-coated chocolate chips, you could roll these bites in shredded coconut, finely chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of melted dark chocolate with a sprinkle of sea salt. Get creative with your favorite toppings!
Cosmic Brownie Bites: Easy 10-Minute Recipe!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Healthy cosmic brownie bites are a no-bake, vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free twist on the classic Little Debbie dessert. These bite-sized cosmic brownies are made with medjool dates, almonds, walnuts, cocoa, and candy-coated chocolate chips. They are a quick and easy 10-minute snack, perfect for kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups medjool dates, packed
- 1 cup almonds
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1–2 tbsp maple syrup (only as needed)
- 1/3 cup candy coated chocolate chips
Instructions
- Add medjool dates, almonds, walnuts, shredded coconut, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt to a food processor.
- Blend the ingredients until a sticky dough forms. If your dough is crumbly rather than sticky, add 1-2 tbsp maple syrup and blend again. The additional maple syrup will help the ingredients stick together and create a sweeter flavor.
- Transfer the brownie dough to a bowl. Add candy coated chocolate chips. Mix together.
- Using clean hands, scoop and roll the dough into bite-sized balls. Enjoy your homemade cosmic brownie bites!
Notes
- Store cosmic brownie bites inside a sealed container.
- Keep at room temperature for 3 days or in the refrigerator for 1 week.
- For long-term storage, keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Mix, No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 brownie bite
- Calories: 152
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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