If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy that irresistible almond croissant flavor in a simple, plant-based treat, these Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars are about to become your new favorite obsession. Buttery, golden, and layered with almond goodness, they transform a French bakery classic into an easy, wholesome dessert bar you can whip up in minutes. Every bite delivers all the cozy nostalgia of a patisserie, but with a vegan twist that makes them perfect for sharing with everyone you love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
When it comes to the magic behind these Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars, it’s all about a handful of thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in flavor, texture, and that signature croissant vibe. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few pro tips to make them shine:
- Almond flour: Adds a delicate, nutty flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture reminiscent of classic almond pastries.
- All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a soft, tender crumb that forms the perfect base for these cookie bars.
- Coconut oil (solid, not melted): Gives that rich, buttery mouthfeel without any dairy—be sure it’s solid for the best texture.
- Maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the bars while adding a subtle caramel note that complements the almonds beautifully.
- Almond butter: Deepens the almond flavor and helps bind everything together with extra creaminess.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a warm, bakery-style aroma.
- Almond extract: The secret to capturing true almond croissant essence—don’t skip this one!
- Salt: Just a little brings out all the flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Sliced almonds: For irresistible crunch and a beautiful, bakery-worthy topping.
- Brown sugar (optional, for topping): Adds a caramelized finish and a touch of sparkle—highly recommended for extra flair.
- Plant-based milk (for brushing): Helps the almond topping adhere and encourages even browning.
How to Make Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This not only guarantees effortless removal of your Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars, but also means zero messy clean-up. Trust me, parchment paper is your friend here.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. This step ensures that the base of your bars is evenly seasoned and that the nutty almond flavor is distributed in every bite.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add the solid coconut oil, maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the bowl. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms—it should hold together but still feel tender and supple. The aroma at this stage is already pure heaven!
Step 4: Press and Top
Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan, smoothing it out so every corner gets love. Brush the top lightly with plant-based milk, then scatter sliced almonds and a sprinkle of brown sugar (if you’re using it) over the surface. Gently press the almonds into the dough so they stay put during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center looks set. The scent will fill your kitchen and probably have everyone circling! Let the bars cool completely in the pan—this helps them firm up so you get perfect slices every time.
How to Serve Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars
Garnishes
Once cooled, you can take these Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars to the next level with a drizzle of almond glaze (just mix powdered sugar, a drop of almond extract, and a splash of plant milk). A dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of extra sliced almonds on top also makes them look irresistible.
Side Dishes
These bars are perfection with a cup of strong coffee or a creamy oat latte, but they also pair beautifully with fresh berries or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a true dessert moment. Serve them at brunch alongside fresh fruit salad for a French-inspired treat everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, try cutting the Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars into triangles for a croissant-like look, or arrange them on a tiered platter for a special occasion. They also make a thoughtful edible gift—just wrap a few in parchment and tie with a ribbon for a sweet surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Their soft texture and almond flavor stay delicious, making them perfect for snacking or an afternoon treat.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Slice them first, then layer between sheets of parchment in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to two months—just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Reheating
If you love that just-baked feel, pop a bar in the toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to warm it up. The edges will get a little crisp, and the almond aroma will be even more inviting.
FAQs
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend. The almond flour already provides plenty of structure and a lovely, tender bite.
Do I have to use coconut oil?
If you prefer, you can substitute vegan butter for the coconut oil. Just be sure it’s cold and solid for the best texture in your dough.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing with a sharp knife. For extra neat edges, wipe the knife between cuts. This helps you get those perfect bakery-style squares or triangles.
Can I add chocolate?
Why not? A few vegan chocolate chips sprinkled on top before baking or a drizzle of dark chocolate after cooling can add a delicious twist to your Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars.
How can I make the almond flavor even more intense?
Double up on the almond extract, or add a little extra almond butter to the dough. You can also sprinkle a few drops of almond extract into your glaze for a finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try these Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars—they’re a little taste of bakery bliss that’s easy enough for any day of the week. Share them with friends, bring them to brunch, or tuck one away for yourself as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Happy baking!
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Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These Vegan Almond Croissant Cookie Bars combine the flaky, buttery essence of a classic almond croissant with the convenience of a cookie bar. Made with almond flour, coconut oil, and a touch of almond extract, they offer a rich, nutty flavor in every bite. Ideal as a dairy-free, vegan dessert or snack, these bars are perfect for almond lovers looking for a delicious plant-based treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup coconut oil (solid, not melted)
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ¼ cup almond butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon almond extract
Toppings
- ½ cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons plant-based milk (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, all-purpose flour, and salt, making sure these dry ingredients are evenly mixed for a consistent dough texture.
- Add wet ingredients: Incorporate the solid coconut oil, maple syrup, almond butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract into the dry mixture. Stir the ingredients together until a soft, cohesive dough forms.
- Press dough into pan: Transfer the dough into your prepared pan and press it down evenly, creating a compact and smooth surface for uniform baking.
- Top the dough: Lightly brush the surface with plant-based milk to help toppings adhere. Then sprinkle the sliced almonds evenly over the top, followed by the optional brown sugar for added sweetness and a slight caramelized finish. Gently press the almonds into the dough to secure them.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 22–25 minutes, or until the edges turn a golden brown and the center is set but still slightly soft, indicating the perfect balance of chewiness and firmness.
- Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan; this helps them firm up and makes slicing easier. Once cooled, cut into 12 evenly sized bars and serve.
Notes
- For an enhanced almond croissant flavor, drizzle the cooled bars with an almond glaze made from powdered sugar, almond extract, and plant-based milk.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate the bars for longer freshness, keeping them moist and flavorful.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
