If you’re looking for a deliciously spiced treat that captures the essence of the holiday season, look no further than these Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with the warm flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Plus, they come together quickly and easily, making them the perfect addition to any festive gathering. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to try something new, these cookie bars are sure to become a favorite!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
These Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars are not just any dessert; they are a celebration of flavor and texture. What makes this recipe particularly special is the use of a flax egg, which provides moisture and binding without any animal products. The combination of fancy molasses and brown sugar gives these bars a rich, deep flavor profile, while the blend of spices brings warmth and nostalgia. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed by everyone!
What Goes Into Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars
To whip up a batch of these delightful bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, melted – This adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – For that lovely hint of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- 1/3 cup fancy molasses – The star ingredient that provides that classic gingerbread taste.
- 1 flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) – A vegan substitute for eggs that adds protein and helps bind the mixture.
- 1 cup flour – All-purpose flour works perfectly for the base of the bars.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bars rise and achieve a nice texture.
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that is essential in gingerbread.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger – Adds that signature ginger kick.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – For a touch of warmth and aromatic flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements the other spices beautifully.
- Pinch of salt – Enhances the overall flavors.
Equipment at a Glance
Before you start, gather the following equipment:
- Mixing bowls – For combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Spatula – For folding in the ingredients.
- Baking pan (8×8 inch) – The perfect size for these cookie bars.
- Parchment paper – To line the baking pan for easy removal.
- Oven – To bake your delicious bars to perfection.
Cooking Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars: The Process
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making these Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars!
Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Egg
Start by making your flax egg. In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens and becomes gel-like.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted vegan butter, vanilla extract, brown sugar, granulated sugar, fancy molasses, and the prepared flax egg. Whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. This will ensure that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, using a spatula to fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; you want the ingredients just combined for the best texture.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Pan
Line your 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Lightly grease the parchment with a bit of vegan butter or cooking spray.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift it out using the parchment paper and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.
If You’re Out Of…
No worries! Here are some substitutes you can use:
- Vegan butter – Substitute with coconut oil or another plant-based margarine.
- Fancy molasses – You can use blackstrap molasses or maple syrup in a pinch.
- Flax egg – Chia seeds can also be used in the same ratio as a binder.
- All-purpose flour – Whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend can work as alternatives.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars recipe is versatile, so feel free to add your personal touch! Here are a few notes:
- For an extra festive flair, consider adding chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips to the batter.
- These bars can be frosted with vegan cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
- Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To keep your Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars delicious for days, follow these storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can also freeze these bars! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Troubleshooting Q&A
What if my bars are too crumbly?
If your Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars come out crumbly, it may be due to too much flour or not enough moisture. Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately next time, and consider adding a splash more molasses or a bit of plant milk to the batter.
How do I know when they are done baking?
The bars are done when the edges are slightly pulling away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Why are my bars not rising?
If your Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars don’t rise, it might be due to old baking powder. Make sure your baking powder is fresh for the best results.
Explore More
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Save & Share
If you love these Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars, please share this recipe with your friends and family! They’re perfect for the holiday season or any time you crave a cozy, spiced treat. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag me on social media; I would love to see your creations!
There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting flavor of Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars to brighten your day. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea, share them at a gathering, or simply indulge in them yourself, they’re bound to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!
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Vegan Gingerbread Cookie Bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare Your Flax Egg - In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens and becomes gel-like.
- Step 2: Preheat the Oven - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients - In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted vegan butter, vanilla extract, brown sugar, granulated sugar, fancy molasses, and the prepared flax egg. Whisk until smooth.
- Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients - In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
- Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients - Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, using a spatula to fold them together.
- Step 6: Prepare the Baking Pan - Line your 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang.
- Step 7: Bake - Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes.
- Step 8: Cool and Cut - Let it cool for about 10 minutes, then lift it out and transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cut into squares.
Notes
- For an extra festive flair, consider adding chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips to the batter.
- These bars can be frosted with vegan cream cheese frosting for a decadent dessert.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
