Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe

If you’re craving a flaky, buttery treat but want to keep things entirely plant-based without losing an ounce of indulgence, you have to try this Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe. It beautifully brings together the delicate nuttiness of almond and the tender, crisp texture reminiscent of a croissant, all baked into a convenient, sliceable bar. Each bite melts in your mouth with subtle sweetness, a hint of almond extract, and that perfect almond-studded crunch on top. Whether you’re serving guests or just treating yourself, these bars are a showstopper that makes vegan baking feel downright luxurious and approachable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating those luscious flavors and textures. From the all-purpose and almond flours providing the base to the coconut oil enriching every bite with moistness, every element is essential.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The structural foundation that keeps the bars light yet sturdy.
• 1/2 cup almond flour: Adds nutty depth and a tender crumb.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly without overpowering the almond notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Gives a slight lift for that delicate, flaky bite.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted: Provides buttery richness while keeping it vegan.
• 1/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk): Moistens the dough while complementing the almond flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: The star ingredient for that unmistakable almond aroma.
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping): Toasty crunch that finishes the bars beautifully.
• For the glaze: 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon almond milk, 1/4 teaspoon almond extract: A sweet, glossy finish that seals the deal.

How to Make Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it so much easier to release the bars later without breaking the delicate edges—trust me, this little prep step saves frustration and keeps things tidy!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until everything is evenly combined. This ensures that the rising agent and flavors distribute properly throughout the dough for a consistent texture.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the melted coconut oil, almond milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract into your dry mix. Stir gently but thoroughly so that a soft, pliable dough forms. The coconut oil lends that wonderful buttery mouthfeel, while the almond and vanilla extracts layer irresistible fragrance and flavor into every bite.

Step 4: Press the Dough Into the Pan

Transfer the dough to your lined baking pan and use a spatula or your hands to press it evenly into place. Smoothing the top at this point helps the bars bake uniformly and ensures a lovely flat surface for the sliced almonds and glaze to shine.

Step 5: Add the Sliced Almonds

Scatter the sliced almonds generously over the dough’s surface. These little nutty gems will toast in the oven, adding that signature crunch and a toasty aroma that turns this treat into something truly special.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Pop your pan into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You want a beautiful golden-brown finish and for a toothpick inserted in the center to come out clean. This means the bars are perfectly cooked with a tender, moist inside and crisp edges.

Step 7: Whisk Together the Glaze

While the bars bake, mix powdered sugar, almond milk, and almond extract in a small bowl. This glaze is the crowning touch—sweet, creamy, and with just enough almond punch to make you swoon.

Step 8: Cool and Drizzle

Once out of the oven, let the bars cool for about 10-15 minutes. Then drizzle your almond glaze evenly over the top. The warmth helps it sink just slightly, creating a soft, shiny finish that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.

Step 9: Slice and Enjoy

Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. This resting time lets everything set nicely and means you get perfect slices that hold together well but melt in your mouth.

How to Serve Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra sliced almonds or a light dusting of powdered sugar can elevate these bars visually and texturally. A faint drizzle of melted dark chocolate is another gorgeous option that pairs wonderfully with almond flavor.

Side Dishes

These bars are lovely on their own but also make a delightful accompaniment to a cup of tea, coffee, or almond milk latte. For brunch, pair them with fresh fruit or a vegan yogurt parfait to create a well-rounded, elegant spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bars on a rustic wooden board for a cozy vibe, or arrange them in a pretty basket lined with napkins for gifting. You can also cut them into bite-sized pieces to serve alongside a dessert wine or non-dairy cream for a special occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate to keep them fresh and prevent the coconut oil from becoming too soft.

Freezing

If you want to keep these bars longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze beautifully for up to two months, just thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive that just-baked warmth, pop a bar in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm it gently in a low oven. The glaze might soften slightly, creating a melty, irresistible experience.

FAQs

Can I substitute almond flour with another nut flour?

Yes, you can swap almond flour for hazelnut or cashew flour, but keep in mind that it might slightly alter the flavor and texture. Almond flour is mild yet distinct, so alternatives will bring their own unique taste.

Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe without gluten worries.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

If almond extract is unavailable, you can increase the vanilla extract slightly for flavor, but the almond taste will be less pronounced. Alternatively, add a tablespoon of finely ground almonds into the dough for a nutty boost.

Can I use a different oil instead of coconut oil?

Coconut oil adds a subtle tropical note and solidifies nicely, but you can replace it with vegan butter or another neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.

How thick should I press the dough into the pan?

Press the dough evenly about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick to ensure it bakes through properly and offers that balance of crisp edges with a soft interior typical of croissant-inspired bars.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe—it delivers that flaky, nutty charm of a classic croissant in an easy, grab-and-go bar form, all while being completely plant-based. I hope you give this recipe a whirl soon; it’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply sneaking one with your afternoon coffee. Once you try it, I’m betting it’ll become a cherished favorite just like it is for me!

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