These Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo) are the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. They feature a chewy hazelnut and date crust that is filled with a rich, creamy chocolate ganache. This recipe is not only gluten-free and dairy-free but also paleo and vegan friendly. Whether you want a quick dessert for guests or a special snack just for yourself, these cookie cups deliver on both taste and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With no baking required, you can whip these up in just over an hour.
- Health-Conscious Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, they fit perfectly into paleo and vegan diets.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of hazelnuts and chocolate creates an irresistible taste experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for parties, picnics, or as a post-workout snack.
- Kid-Friendly: These cookie cups are sure to be a hit with children and adults alike!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your hazelnut cookie cups, gather all necessary tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Food Processor
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Spatula
- Muffin Tin
Importance of Each Tool
- Food Processor: Essential for blending the crust ingredients into a smooth mixture.
- Muffin Tin: Helps shape the cookie cups perfectly for consistent results.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1/2 cup raw hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 7 Medjool dates, pitted (105g)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
For the Filling
- Hazelnut Butter Dark Chocolate Bar (2.20z)
- 1/3 cup coconut cream
How to Make Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo)
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a food processor, combine the raw hazelnuts, shredded coconut, Medjool dates, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Process until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pressed.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of each muffin tin cavity to form a crust.
Step 2: Make the Ganache Filling
- Melt the Hazelnut Butter Dark Chocolate Bar in a microwave or over low heat on the stove until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted chocolate with coconut cream. Stir until well blended.
Step 3: Assemble the Cookie Cups
- Spoon the chocolate ganache filling into each crust-filled muffin tin cavity.
- Smooth out the tops with a spatula.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
- Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow the cookie cups to set.
- Once set, carefully remove each cookie cup from the tin and serve chilled.
Enjoy your delicious Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo) as a delightful treat any time!
How to Serve Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo)
These delicious hazelnut cookie cups are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
For a Sweet Snack
- Enjoy with Fresh Fruit: Pair these cookie cups with slices of strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast.
- Drizzle with Nut Butter: Add an extra layer of flavor by drizzling almond butter or hazelnut butter on top.
As a Dessert Platter
- Mix with Other Treats: Serve alongside mini vegan cheesecakes or chocolate truffles for an irresistible dessert spread.
- Garnish with Cocoa Powder: Dust cocoa powder on top for a sophisticated touch that enhances the chocolate flavor.
On Special Occasions
- Birthday Celebration: These cookie cups make delightful treats for birthday parties, offering a unique and healthy option.
- Holiday Gatherings: Present them at holiday events as a delicious alternative to traditional sweets.
For Meal Prep
- Pack in Lunchboxes: These cups are great for snacks on-the-go. Just place them in airtight containers for easy transport.
- Store in the Freezer: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them. They’ll keep well for future cravings.
How to Perfect Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo)
Creating the perfect hazelnut cookie cups is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your treats turn out amazing every time.
- Use Fresh Dates: Ensure your Medjool dates are fresh and soft; this will enhance the sweetness and texture of the crust.
- Pulse Hazelnuts Properly: Blend the hazelnuts until they are finely ground but not pasty; this maintains the desired texture in your crust.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the cookie cups to sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps them set properly.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to swap out the chocolate ganache with different fillings such as fruit purees or flavored nut creams.
Best Side Dishes for Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo)
Pairing side dishes with your hazelnut cookie cups can enhance your meal experience. Here are some wonderful options that complement their rich flavors.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the sweetness of cookie cups.
- Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy contrast.
- Green Smoothie Bowl: A nutritious green smoothie topped with seeds and nuts adds health benefits alongside these treats.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy pudding is rich in omega-3s and offers a lovely texture that pairs well with hazelnut flavors.
- Nut Mix: A simple blend of almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds gives an added crunch that complements the softness of the cookies.
- Dark Chocolate Bark: Homemade dark chocolate bark can be broken into pieces and served as an additional chocolate treat alongside your cups.
- Herbal Tea Selection: Offer a variety of herbal teas that pair nicely with desserts, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
- Homemade Granola Bars: Chewy granola bars made from oats and nuts provide another healthy snack option that aligns well with your paleo lifestyle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making hazelnut cookie cups can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes along the way. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for the perfect texture. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups for precision.
- Skipping the chilling time: Allowing the cookie cups to chill helps them set properly. Don’t rush this step; it ensures a firmer texture.
- Overmixing the crust: Mixing too much can lead to a dense crust. Blend until just combined for a chewy finish.
- Using stale nuts or dates: Fresh ingredients are essential for flavor. Check the expiration dates and store them properly before use.
- Ignoring storage instructions: Storing improperly can affect taste and texture. Follow storage guidelines for optimal freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- These hazelnut cookie cups last up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo)
- Wrap individual cookie cups tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 5-10 minutes. This method is best if you want a slightly firmer texture.
- Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds. This is quick but can soften them too much if overdone.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan on very low heat with a lid on for about 5 minutes to gently warm through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here’s what people often ask about making hazelnut cookie cups.
Can I substitute hazelnuts with another nut?
Yes, you can use almonds or walnuts instead. However, this will change the flavor profile slightly.
Are these Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo) vegan?
Absolutely! They are made with plant-based ingredients, making them suitable for vegans.
How long do these cookie cups take to prepare?
The total prep time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including chilling time.
Can I add other flavors to the filling?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with extracts like almond or orange for unique flavors.
Final Thoughts
These hazelnut cookie cups are not only delicious but also versatile and healthy. Their no-bake nature makes them easy to whip up anytime you crave something sweet without compromising your dietary needs. You can customize these treats by adding different flavors or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion!

Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo)
- Author: Cecilia
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 8 cookie cups 1x
Description
Indulge in a delightful treat with these Hazelnut Cookie Cups (No Bake, Paleo). Perfect for every occasion, these cookie cups feature a chewy hazelnut and date crust that cradles a rich, creamy chocolate ganache filling. Not only are they gluten-free, dairy-free, paleo, and vegan-friendly, but they also make for an easy dessert that will impress your guests or satisfy your sweet cravings. With quick preparation and healthy ingredients, they offer a decadent flavor experience without compromising your dietary needs. Whether served at parties or enjoyed as a personal snack, these cookie cups are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup raw hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut
- 7 Medjool dates, pitted
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
- Hazelnut Butter Dark Chocolate Bar (2.20 oz)
- 1/3 cup coconut cream
Instructions
- In a food processor, blend hazelnuts, shredded coconut, Medjool dates, vanilla extract, and salt until crumbly and stick together.
- Press the mixture evenly into muffin tin cavities to form the crust.
- Melt the chocolate bar and mix with coconut cream until smooth.
- Fill each crust with chocolate ganache and smooth the tops.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No bake
- Cuisine: Paleo
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Ensure your dates are fresh for the best sweetness and texture. Experiment with different fillings like fruit purees or flavored nut creams for variety.