Vegan Cookie Bars Recipe Easy, Delicious, and Healthy

There’s something incredibly comforting about cookie bars—they combine the rich, chewy texture of cookies with the ease of baking in a single pan. If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s entirely plant-based, our Vegan Cookie Bars Recipe is perfect for you.

These bars are wonderfully soft, packed with flavors, and simple to make with everyday ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based desserts, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen.

From family gatherings to a quick snack with your afternoon tea, these cookie bars are versatile and satisfying. Plus, they’re free from eggs, dairy, and refined sugars if you make a few mindful swaps.

Let’s dive into why you’ll love these vegan cookie bars and how you can make them your own!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

First, these cookie bars are incredibly easy to make—no need for fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. The recipe uses pantry staples like flour, brown sugar, and coconut oil, making it accessible for everyone.

The texture strikes a perfect balance between chewy and soft, with a rich, buttery flavor that comes purely from plant-based ingredients.

Additionally, these bars are customizable. Want to add nuts or vegan chocolate chips?

Go ahead! Craving a hint of cinnamon or vanilla?

This recipe welcomes it all. Plus, baking in a single pan means less mess and faster cleanup, perfect for busy weekdays or last-minute dessert plans.

Lastly, these cookie bars are a great treat for those with dietary restrictions. They’re free from dairy and eggs, making them safe for vegans and those with common allergies.

You can also easily swap ingredients to make them gluten-free or refined sugar-free.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted (or vegan butter)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Equipment

• 8×8 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls (medium and large)
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Parchment paper (optional for easy removal)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 8×8 inch pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the wet ingredients: melted coconut oil, brown sugar, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.
5. Fold in the vegan chocolate chips and nuts if using. This adds delightful texture and flavor.
6. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares. This helps them set perfectly.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra gooey texture, slightly underbake the bars. They will firm up as they cool!”

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Add 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it.
• Refined Sugar-Free: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or maple syrup (reduce the applesauce slightly if using liquid sweeteners).
• Add Fruit: Mix in 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
• Nut-Free: Omit nuts or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• Spiced Up: Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice for warm autumnal flavors.
• Chocolate Lovers: Double the chocolate chips or drizzle melted vegan chocolate on top after baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan cookie bars are delightful on their own but also pair wonderfully with a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a lighter snack, enjoy them with a cup of herbal tea or plant-based milk.

Try crumbling the bars over vegan yogurt and fresh fruit for a quick parfait or serve alongside a fresh fruit salad for a balanced treat. They also travel well, making them a perfect homemade gift or lunchbox addition.

Looking for more vegan dessert inspiration? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or indulge in the rich flavors of our Vegan Chocolate Milk Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide.

Conclusion

These vegan cookie bars are a fantastic way to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things plant-based and wholesome. They’re simple to prepare, customizable to your taste, and perfect for any occasion from casual snacking to festive celebrations.

The recipe strikes a lovely balance between indulgence and healthy ingredients, proving that vegan baking can be both delicious and easy.

Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, these cookie bars will become a go-to recipe for quick treats that don’t compromise on taste. Don’t forget to explore other delightful vegan recipes like the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to round out your plant-based baking repertoire.

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