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Healthy No Bake Cookie Dough Bars (Gluten-Free, Vegan)

In the realm of healthy snacking, few treats can compete with the joy of cookie dough. Imagine indulging in rich, creamy cookie dough bars without the guilt—sounds too good to be true, right? Well, it’s not! Our Healthy No Bake Cookie Dough Bars are not only delicious, but they are also gluten-free, vegan, and incredibly easy to make. These little wonders are perfect for a quick snack, a dessert, or even a healthy treat after a workout. Let’s dive into the simple process of creating these scrumptious bars.

Why No Bake?

No bake recipes are the heroes in the kitchen, particularly when you’re looking for something quick, easy, and fuss-free. With no need for an oven, you significantly reduce the mess and save time. Plus, you preserve the raw goodness of the ingredients, allowing their natural flavours to shine through.

Health Benefits

• Gluten-Free: For those with gluten sensitivities, these bars are a perfect alternative to traditional cookie dough.
• Vegan: Free from animal products, these bars are suitable for various dietary preferences and lifestyles.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, they provide protein, healthy fats, and fibre, making them a guilt-free indulgence.
• No Added Sugar: Sweetened naturally, you can enjoy a treat without the sugar crash.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough Bars:

• 1 cup almond flour (or any gluten-free flour of your choice)
• 1/2 cup smooth almond butter (or any nut or seed butter)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (or cacao nibs)

For the Chocolate Drizzle (optional):

• 1/2 cup dark dairy-free chocolate, melted
• 1 tsp coconut oil (optional, for smoother consistency)

Method

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and form a dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too crumbly, add a touch more almond butter or maple syrup until it holds together well.

Step 2: Fold in the Chocolate

1. Gently fold in the vegan chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 3: Shape the Bars

1. Line a square baking dish (about 8×8 inches) with parchment paper. Press the cookie dough mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula or the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Chill

1. Place the dish in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set. This helps the bars firm up and makes them easier to cut.

Step 5: Drizzle with Chocolate (Optional)

1. While the bars are chilling, melt the dark chocolate (with coconut oil if using) in a microwave or over a double boiler. Remove the bars from the fridge, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top, and return to the fridge for an additional 10-15 minutes to set the chocolate.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Once set, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment paper. Slice into squares or rectangles, as desired. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week—if they last that long!

Conclusion

These Healthy No Bake Cookie Dough Bars are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings with a nutritious twist. They are the perfect blend of flavour, texture, and health, making them an ideal snack for anyone—whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a tasty treat. Not only do they offer the delightful satisfaction of cookie dough, but they also pack a punch of nutrition. So why not treat yourself? Whip up a batch today and enjoy the bliss of guilt-free indulgence!