Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

About Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a nutty flavor and a tender, chewy texture that’s truly irresistible. Made primarily with almond flour, these bars provide a gluten-free option for cookie lovers, appealing to those with dietary restrictions while maintaining the traditional sweetness and comforting taste of sugar cookies.

this recipe

What You’ll Need for Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

Complete Ingredients List

• 2 cups almond flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional, for a chocolate twist)

Ingredient Substitutions & Alternatives

If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, there are several alternatives you can use:

• Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
• Egg-Free: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a binder.
• Sugar-Free: Replace the sugar with a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free due to the use of almond flour.

For flavor variations, you may add citrus zest, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even swap in different flavored extracts (like almond or coconut) to give a unique twist to the traditional sugar cookie bars.

How to Make Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. This will prevent the bars from sticking to the pan and allow for easy cutting once baked.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking soda, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are thoroughly mixed and there are no clumps, which is crucial for an even baking process.

Step 3: Mix Butter, Sugar, and Egg

In a larger mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. At this point, if you are including chocolate chips, fold them into the batter. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky, which is typical for almond flour recipes.

Step 5: Spread and Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to spread the dough into an even layer. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Cut

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice into squares or bars, and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions for Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

How to Serve Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

These almond flour sugar cookie bars can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference. For the best taste experience, allow them to cool slightly before cutting, so they hold their shape and the flavors develop fully.

When serving, consider cutting them into fun shapes or fun-sized squares, and arrange them on a decorative plate or serving platter. A light dusting of powdered sugar on top can add a finishing touch that makes them look even more inviting.

Perfect Pairings & Toppings

To elevate your dessert experience, consider topping the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream drizzled with chocolate sauce. Fresh berries can also enhance both flavor and presentation, bringing a touch of tartness to balance the sweet cookie bars. Adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts on top provides texture and enriches the nutty flavor profile of the almond flour.

Storing & Preserving Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

Best Storage Methods

To store your almond flour sugar cookie bars, allow them to cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. When freezing, it’s best to layer parchment paper between the bars to prevent sticking.

Reheating or Freezing Tips

If you choose to freeze the bars, make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the bars in the refrigerator overnight. For serving, you can heat them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore some warmth or enjoy them cold.

Tips for Perfect Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars Every Time

Avoid These Common Mistakes

• Using Old Ingredients: Ensure your baking soda is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to dense bars.
• Overmixing the Batter: Once the dry ingredients are added, mix just until combined to avoid tough bars.
• Baking Time: Keep an eye on the baking time, as almond flour can brown quickly. Check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off.

Helpful Tricks for Success

• For an even texture, consider using almond flour that’s finely ground; this can greatly improve the consistency of the bars.
• If you’re short on time, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for a day before baking.
• For a more intense almond flavor, try toasting the almond flour in a pan for a few minutes before incorporating it into the dough.

Fun Variations of Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars

Flavor Variations or Recipe Twists

You can easily customize your almond flour sugar cookie bars using various add-ins:

• Coconut: Shredded unsweetened coconut makes a great addition for a tropical twist.
• Fruit Zest: Adding the zest of an orange or lemon can brighten the flavor.
• Spices: Mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom can provide warmth and depth to the cookie bars.

Dietary-Friendly Adjustments

For those following specific diet regimens:

• Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg instead of a regular egg.
• Sugar-Free: Opt for natural sugar substitutes or erythritol to keep the bars sweet without the sugar.

FAQs

What If My Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars Doesn’t Turn Out Right?

If your bars are too dry, try adding a couple of teaspoons of milk or another egg in future batches to help with moisture. If they are too crumbly, be sure to use proper measurements and check that your almond flour is fresh and not overly coarse. Also, underbaking can lead to a gooey result, so ensure a toothpick comes out clean.

Can I Prepare This in Advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dough beforehand and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the bars in advance, let them cool, and refrigerate or freeze them until you’re ready to serve.

What Ingredients Can I Swap?

You can swap almond flour for other nut flours such as hazelnut or cashew flour, but note that this will change the flavor profile. Additionally, for a different texture, you might try half almond and half coconut flour, but adjustments in liquid may be necessary since coconut flour is more absorbent.

Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of these Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars at your next gathering or as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Happy baking!

Print