How to Make Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars – Easy Recipe

I have to confess that sugar cookie bars have always been a weakness of mine. There’s just something about their soft, chewy texture and sweet, buttery flavour that makes them irresistible. But when I switched to a vegan lifestyle, I thought I’d have to give up on these delicious treats. Boy, was I wrong! After some trial and error, I finally figured out how to make vegan sugar cookie bars that are just as tasty—if not better—than the traditional ones. Trust me, you’re going to love these absolutely!

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars

If you’re anything like me, you appreciate a dessert that’s easy to make but still delivers on flavour. These vegan sugar cookie bars check all the boxes:

1. Perfectly Soft and Chewy Texture: I was amazed at how these bars turned out—soft, chewy, and just the right amount of sweetness.
2. Simple, Everyday Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen right now.
3. Dairy-Free and Egg-Free: Whether you’re vegan or just trying to cut back on animal products, these bars are a guilt-free indulgence.
4. Customizable Toppings: I love adding a personal touch with different toppings. Frosting and sprinkles are my go-to, but feel free to get creative!

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I really enjoy about this recipe is how easy it is to make. You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just the basics.

Dry Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour: This is the main ingredient that forms the base of the cookie bars. If you’re gluten-free, you can easily swap it for a gluten-free blend.
• Baking Powder: This helps lift the bars a little.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds that essential sweetness.

Wet Ingredients:

• Vegan Butter: I recommend using good-quality plant-based Butter for the best flavour.
• Almond Milk: I usually use almond milk, but oat or soy milk works just as well.
• Vanilla Extract: This is a must for that classic sugar cookie flavour.

For the Frosting:

• Powdered Sugar: This gives the frosting its sweetness.
• Vegan Butter: Helps make the frosting smooth and creamy.
• Optional Add-Ins: I like to add a few drops of food colouring for fun and sprinkles for extra flair.

Step-by-Step Instructions

I promise, making these vegan sugar cookie bars is super easy. Here’s how I do it:

Prepare the Dough

• Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking pan with parchment paper. This makes cleanup a breeze!
• In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and sugar with a whisk.
• In another bowl, cream the vegan Butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Then, add the almond milk and vanilla extract and mix well.
• Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ones, stirring until everything is well combined. You’ll end up with a soft dough.

Bake the Cookie Bars

• Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan. I like to use a spatula to smooth out the top.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you want the edges to be lightly golden, but the centre should still be soft.

Cool and Frost

• This part requires a little patience. Be sure to let the cookie bars cool down fully before you add the frosting. If you rush this step, the frosting will melt, and nobody wants that!
• To make the frosting, beat the vegan Butter and powdered sugar until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, stir in a little almond milk.
• Spread the frosting over the cooled bars and add your favourite sprinkles.

Cut and Serve

• Once the frosting has set, slice the cookie bars into squares. I usually go for medium-sized squares, but you can cut them however you like. Then, dig in!

Tips for the Best Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars

I’ve made these bars so many times that I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way:

1. Use Room-Temperature Vegan Butter. This makes it easier to cream the Butter and sugar, giving you a smoother dough.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can make the bars challenging. Just mix until everything is combined.
3. Keep an Eye on the Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking around the 20-minute mark.

Allow them to cool completely – I promise, it’s totally worth the wait. Cooling helps the bars set correctly and makes frosting them a breeze.

Variations and Substitutions

What I really love about this recipe is how flexible it is. Here are some creative ways to change things up:

1. Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.
2. Flavour Boost: Try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract for a fun twist.
3. Chocolate Drizzle: Not a fan of frosting? Drizzle melted vegan chocolate over the top instead.
4. Nut-Free Option: Use oat milk or rice milk if you need a nut-free version.

FAQ Section About Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars

Can I make these sugar cookie bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure it includes xanthan gum for the perfect texture.

How long do vegan sugar cookie bars last?

If you store them in an airtight container, they’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. You can also store them in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I freeze these cookie bars?

Yes! I usually freeze them unfrosted. Wrap them securely in plastic wrap and place them in a container safe for the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and frost them.

What’s the best vegan Butter for baking?

I’ve had great results with brands like Earth Balance and Miyoko’s. Just make sure to use one that’s specifically meant for baking.

Conclusion Vegan Sugar Cookie Bars

Honestly, these vegan sugar cookie bars have become a staple in my household. They’re perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just when you’re craving something sweet. Plus, they’re so easy to make that you really have no excuse not to try them!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, heat the oven, and let’s get started with baking! I’d love to hear how your cookie bars turn out, so feel free to leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your creations. Happy baking!