The holidays are a popular time for baking. If you are looking to satisfy a sweet tooth without going too far off your healthy routine these no-bake cookie bites are an indulgence that is both gluten free and vegan!  Get delicious no-bake cookies with a hint of vanilla in just about 15 minutes from start to finish with our healthy holiday cookie recipe.
  

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cup almond flour (or coconut flour)
• 1/3 cup packed pitted medjool dates (measured after pits are removed)
• 1/4 cup raw almonds
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt 

Optional Toppings

• Finely shredded, unsweetened coconut
• Chopped raw almonds
• Chia seeds
• Hemp hearts

Directions

1. Prepare a parchment lined baking sheet to lay out your cookies.
2. Combine pitted dates, walnuts, almond flour, vanilla extract and sea salt in the food processor. 
3. Blend all ingredients together until they are a semi-fine consistency.  Continue to pulse until the ingredients form a loose dough.  Do not over-blend, keep the dough pliable and avoid it turning into a puree consistency.
4. Use a cookie scooper to scoop out 2-tablespoon sized balls. Roll them with your hands until evenly circular and place on your parchment lined baking sheet.  Repeat until all dough has been used.
5. Roll the balls in the desired optional toppings listed above: almond flour, shredded coconut, almond pieces, chia seats, or hemp hearts. 
6. Store in a refrigerator or freezer to preserve freshness for up to 1 week.

These healthful no-bake cookies are packed full of energy from the dates and walnuts. The flavor from the vanilla and coconut are a delicious treat that won't leave you weighed down with sugars and processed white flour. The easy-to make tender bites really do taste like vanilla cake and they pair delightfully with the new vegan VitaCup Probiotic Blend or our classic French Vanilla coffee blends.