Introduction to Non-Dairy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Chocolate chip cookie bars are a beloved treat, offering the comforting flavor and texture of cookies without the hassle of shaping and baking individual cookies. This recipe takes the classic cookie bar to new heights by focusing on non-dairy ingredients, making it an inclusive dessert for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to reduce your dairy intake, these Non Dairy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars will satisfy your sweet cravings with ease.
Ingredients for Non-Dairy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
- 1 cup of vegan butter or coconut oil, softened
- 1 1⁄2 cups of brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
- 2 1⁄4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1⁄2 cups of vegan chocolate chips
🌱 Note: For the flax egg, ensure the mixture sits for about 15 minutes to achieve a gel-like consistency.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it well with non-dairy butter or oil.
Making the Cookie Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the vegan butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add the vanilla extract and the flax egg. Mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just blended.
- Fold in the vegan chocolate chips.
Baking
- Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
⏰ Note: Check your oven periodically as baking times can vary. Do not overbake to maintain a soft, chewy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, let the cookie bars cool completely before cutting them into squares. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of non-dairy vanilla ice cream or as-is with a cup of tea or coffee.
Benefits of Non-Dairy Baking
- Vegan and Lactose-Free: Suitable for those with dairy sensitivities or ethical dietary preferences.
- Health Benefits: Often lower in cholesterol and saturated fats.
- Environmental Impact: Reducing dairy consumption can help lower your carbon footprint.
Customizations
While chocolate chip cookie bars are delightful on their own, here are some ideas to jazz up your recipe:
- Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Substitute half of the chocolate chips with non-dairy white chocolate chips or dried fruit.
- Swirl in a non-dairy caramel or peanut butter for a different flavor profile.
To summarize, Non-Dairy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delicious and inclusive dessert option that can be enjoyed by nearly everyone. They are straightforward to make, adaptable to various dietary needs, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you're baking for a family event, a potluck, or just a cozy evening at home, these bars will not disappoint. Enjoy the sweet, chocolaty goodness in every bite, knowing you've made a choice that's good for both your taste buds and health.
Can I use regular butter if I’m not vegan?
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Yes, you can use regular butter, but this will make the recipe no longer dairy-free. For a non-dairy version, stick to vegan butter or coconut oil.
How do I store these Non Dairy Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars?
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Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. They can also be frozen for longer storage, just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
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Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to make them gluten-free. Be sure to check that your baking powder and soda are also gluten-free as some brands might contain traces of gluten.
What can I use instead of flax egg?
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If you can’t use flax, try chia seeds or commercially available egg replacers. Mix 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water to make a chia egg.
