Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these *red velvet bars vegan gluten free*! They are an absolute dream come true for anyone who loves a rich, decadent dessert but also wants to keep things healthy. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a baking challenge with friends, and wow, did it exceed my expectations! The combination of almond flour and cocoa powder creates a wonderfully moist texture, while the maple syrup adds just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, they’re packed with wholesome ingredients that make you feel good about indulging. Trust me, once you try these bars, you’ll be hooked! They’re perfect for satisfying that sweet tooth without any guilt, and they’re a hit at gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful *red velvet bars vegan gluten free*. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that rich flavor and perfect texture. Let’s dive in!
- 2 cups almond flour: This is the base of our bars, giving them a nutty flavor and moist texture. Make sure it’s finely ground for the best results!
- 1 cup cocoa powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder to give those bars that beautiful red velvet color and a rich chocolatey taste.
- 1 cup maple syrup: This natural sweetener not only adds sweetness but also keeps our bars moist. You can also use agave syrup if you prefer!
- 1/2 cup coconut oil: Melted and cooled, coconut oil adds a lovely richness. Just be careful not to make it too hot or it’ll cook the other ingredients!
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce: This acts as a binding agent and also contributes to the moistness of the bars. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some fruit!
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: A must-have for that warm, inviting flavor that brings everything together.
- 1 tsp baking soda: This helps our bars rise and gives them that light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors. Trust me, it makes a difference!
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: This reacts with the baking soda to create the perfect rise and helps keep the bars tender.
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free): For that extra chocolatey goodness! You can use semi-sweet or even add some white chocolate chips if you want a fun twist.
How to Prepare Red Velvet Bars Vegan Gluten Free
Alright, let’s get those *red velvet bars vegan gluten free* baking! Grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure! First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important to ensure our bars bake evenly.
While the oven warms up, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. This dry mix is where the magic begins! In another bowl, combine the maple syrup, melted coconut oil (just let it cool a bit after melting!), applesauce, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk it all together until it’s smooth and creamy.
Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. You don’t want to overmix; we’re aiming for a beautiful batter here. Once that’s done, gently fold in those dark chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey kick!
Next, pour the batter into a greased baking pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when you insert a toothpick and it comes out clean—that’s the golden ticket! Once baked, let them cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Then, it’s time to cut them into bars and enjoy your masterpiece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these bars ready in about 45 minutes—perfect for a last-minute treat!
- Decadently Delicious: The rich flavor of chocolate combined with the vibrant red hue makes these bars a showstopper at any gathering.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: No need to compromise on your dietary preferences; these bars cater to everyone, making them a guilt-free indulgence!
- Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with almond flour, cocoa, and maple syrup, you can feel good about what you’re enjoying.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or dried fruits for a personal touch—every bite can be a little different!
- Perfect for Sharing: Cut them into bars and bring them to parties, picnics, or just share them with loved ones for a delightful surprise!
Tips for Success
To ensure your *red velvet bars vegan gluten free* turn out perfectly, here are a few tips I swear by! First, measure your almond flour carefully; packing it too tightly can lead to dense bars. A kitchen scale is your best friend for accuracy! When melting coconut oil, let it cool slightly before adding it to the mix to avoid cooking the other ingredients.
Also, don’t skip the cooling step! Allowing the bars to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack helps them set and makes cutting easier. If you want an extra layer of flavor, try toasting the almond flour lightly in a pan before using it—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. Lastly, if you feel adventurous, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for that delightful sweet-salty contrast. Happy baking!
Variations
If you’re feeling creative, there are so many fun ways to customize your *red velvet bars vegan gluten free* to make them uniquely yours! Here are a few ideas to get those wheels turning:
- Chocolate Swap: Instead of dark chocolate chips, try using white chocolate chips or even carob chips for a different flavor profile!
- Nuts & Seeds: Fold in some chopped walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch. They not only add texture but also a boost of nutrition!
- Fruity Twist: Add in a half cup of dried cherries or cranberries for a burst of tartness that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Spice It Up: For a little extra warmth, sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg. It adds a cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate.
- Frosting Fun: Top your bars with a vegan cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and almond milk for an extra indulgent treat!
Remember, the sky’s the limit! Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your own perfect batch of red velvet bars!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your *red velvet bars vegan gluten free*, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh and delicious! Simply place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for about a week, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!
If you prefer them warm, just pop a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked goodness. Enjoy them chilled or warmed up—either way, they’re sure to satisfy your cravings!
Nutritional Information Section
Let’s talk nutrition! These *red velvet bars vegan gluten free* are not only delicious but also a great option for those looking for a healthier treat. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (1 bar):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 3g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But rest assured, you’ll be enjoying a treat that’s both satisfying and guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different flour instead of almond flour?
Absolutely! You can try using oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary a bit, but it should still be delicious!
How do I know when my red velvet bars are done baking?
You’ll want to keep an eye on them around the 25-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready to come out of the oven!
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, definitely! These *red velvet bars vegan gluten free* actually taste even better after a day in the fridge as the flavors meld together. Just store them in an airtight container.
How can I make these bars less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet treat, you can reduce the amount of maple syrup by a couple of tablespoons. You could also try using unsweetened applesauce for a more subtle sweetness.
Can I freeze the leftover bars?
Yes! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying!
Red velvet bars vegan gluten free: 7 irresistible bites
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Delicious vegan and gluten-free red velvet bars.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 cup cocoa powder
- 1 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup coconut oil
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (dairy-free)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix almond flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine maple syrup, coconut oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar.
- Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined.
- Fold in dark chocolate chips.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before cutting into bars.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
- Can add nuts for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: red velvet bars, vegan, gluten free