Tasty No Bake Treats

These indulgent fudgy squares come together with just four basic items from your pantry - no oven needed! They're super rich and chocolatey, making them perfect when you're craving something sweet during hot weather or when you want a chocolate treat without any baking hassle.

I came up with this recipe during a boiling hot summer when I couldn't bear the thought of using my oven. My kids weren't sure about brownies that hadn't been baked until they tried a bite – now they ask for these more than the traditional ones I used to make!

Components

• Almond butter: Forms the rich foundation and gives you that gooey brownie feel without using any flour. Go for the smooth kind for best results.
• Maple syrup: Adds sweetness and works as a binder. Its unique flavor pairs really well with the chocolate elements.
• Cocoa powder: Gives you that deep chocolate kick without melting any actual chocolate. Try Dutch-processed for a milder taste.
• Chocolate frosting: Adds that classic brownie topping everyone loves. Grab some from the store or make your own for an extra special touch.

Easy Method

Get your dish ready:

Put parchment in a square pan with extra hanging over the edges so you can lift everything out later. Push the paper into the corners for nice sharp edges.

Create the brownie base:

In a big bowl, stir almond butter and maple syrup together until they're totally combined. Slowly mix in cocoa powder bit by bit so it doesn't puff everywhere. You'll know it's done when it looks thick and shiny.

Press and cool:

Push this thick mix into your lined pan, making sure it reaches all corners evenly. Use a spoon to smooth the top. Spread a layer of chocolate frosting over everything. Stick it in the fridge for at least half an hour until it firms up.

Cut and enjoy:

Pull the whole thing out using the paper edges. Put it on a board and cut into squares with a sharp knife. Clean your knife between cuts for the prettiest results.

Pin it

Almond butter really makes these treats special. Once when I ran out, I tried using peanut butter instead, and while they were still tasty, they tasted completely different – they reminded me of those chocolate peanut butter candies my grandpa always kept in his pocket as little surprises for us kids.

Custom Touches

You can change these brownies up however you want. Try adding some sea salt on top for that amazing sweet-salty combo that makes chocolate taste even better. Mix in some tiny chocolate chips or chopped nuts if you want some crunch. For extra flavor, add a bit of instant coffee to make the chocolate taste more intense or throw in some cinnamon for a warm twist.

Keeping Fresh

These treats actually get better after a day in the fridge as all the flavors mix together. Keep them in a sealed container with parchment between the layers so they don't stick. They'll stay good for about two weeks in the fridge, though at my house they never last that long! If you want to save them longer, wrap each piece in parchment and put them in a freezer bag for up to six months. Just let them thaw in the fridge overnight.

Ingredient Alternatives

Out of almond butter? Any kind of nut or seed spread will work. Cashew butter makes them super creamy, while sunflower seed butter works great for school lunches where nuts aren't allowed. You can swap the maple syrup for honey (though then they aren't vegan) or agave. If you're doing keto, try using liquid allulose or monk fruit and pick a sugar-free frosting.

Health Perks

Besides tasting awesome, these brownies pack some good stuff too. The almond butter gives you healthy fats and protein that make these more filling than normal brownies. Without regular flour, they won't spike your blood sugar as much as typical recipes. The cocoa has antioxidants and magnesium too. When you use quality ingredients, you can feel a little better about enjoying your sweet treat!

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I swap almond butter for different nut spreads?

Sure thing! You can use peanut butter or cashew butter instead of almond butter. Go for a smooth and unsweetened type for the best outcome.

→ Can I use something else instead of maple syrup?

Definitely! Honey, agave, or any runny sweet stuff you like can work instead of maple syrup.

→ How should I keep these no-heat squares fresh?

Put them in a sealed box in your fridge for up to two weeks. You can also freeze them for up to six months if you want.

→ Can I make these treats without the topping?

Sure, you can leave off the topping if you want something more basic. The squares will still taste rich and gooey without it.

→ Do I need to check for gluten-free options?

This snack doesn't have gluten since it skips flour completely. Just double-check your cocoa powder and topping are marked gluten-free if that's important to you.