Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars

Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of cookie dough, caramel, and chocolate. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in a sweet snack at home. Their unique blend of textures makes them irresistible, and they can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike. With a simple preparation process, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavors: Enjoy the irresistible combination of cookie dough and caramel that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up these delicious bars in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, potlucks, or just an afternoon snack; they fit any occasion.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made with plant-based ingredients, these bars are suitable for vegans and those with dairy allergies.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits to personalize your bars!

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Tools and Preparation

To make Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the process. Having the right equipment makes baking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8×8 baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 8×8 baking pan: This size is perfect for creating thick, chewy bars that slice easily.
• Parchment paper: It prevents sticking and allows for easy removal of the bars from the pan.
• Mixing bowls: Having several sizes helps in preparing different components without mixing ingredients prematurely.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough Layer

• ½ cup sugar
• ¼ cup vegan butter
• 2 tbsp vegan creamer (we prefer oat or soy)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla
• ½ cup vegan butter
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 tbsp nondairy milk
• 1 cup flour
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup nondairy mini chocolate chips

For the Caramel Layer

• 18-20 chocolate sandwich cookies

For the Topping

• 1 cup nondairy chocolate chips
• ½ cup peanut butter

How to Make Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough Layer

1. In a mixing bowl, combine sugar, vegan butter, vegan creamer, salt, and vanilla.
2. Mix well until smooth.
3. Add brown sugar and nondairy milk; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in mini chocolate chips.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Press half of the cookie dough mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan evenly.
2. Crush chocolate sandwich cookies and sprinkle them over the cookie dough layer.
3. Pour melted peanut butter over crushed cookies evenly.

Step 4: Add Final Layer

1. Take remaining cookie dough mixture and dollop it on top of caramel layer.
2. Spread gently to cover as much area as possible.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25–30 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars. Enjoy your Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars!

How to Serve Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars

Serving Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars can elevate any dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to present these treats that will impress your guests.

With a Scoop of Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Pairing these bars with your favorite dairy-free ice cream creates a creamy contrast that enhances the richness of the bars.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce on top adds an extra layer of indulgence and makes for a beautiful presentation.

Accompanied by Fresh Berries

• Fresh berries, like strawberries or raspberries, offer a refreshing tartness that balances the sweetness of the bars.

Served with Plant-Based Whipped Cream

• A dollop of plant-based whipped cream can lighten up the dessert and provide a fluffy texture.

Paired with a Hot Beverage

• Enjoy these bars alongside a cup of hot vegan cocoa or coffee for a cozy dessert experience.

How to Perfect Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars

To ensure your Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter that blends well and results in consistent baking.
• Chill before cutting: Allowing the bars to cool completely in the fridge makes slicing easier and helps them maintain their shape.
• Measure flour accurately: Using the spoon-and-level method prevents adding too much flour, which can make the bars dry.
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for added texture and flavor variations.
• Store properly: Keep the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars

Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars are delicious on their own but can be complemented by various side dishes. Here’s a list of great companions:

1. Coconut Chia Pudding – A creamy, satisfying pudding that pairs well with the rich flavor of the bars.
2. Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits for a healthy contrast.
3. Nutty Granola – Crunchy granola brings texture and can be sprinkled on top for added crunch.
4. Almond Milk Smoothie – A smoothie made with almond milk, bananas, and spinach offers a nutritious beverage option.
5. Roasted Nuts – A handful of roasted nuts adds protein and complements the sweet flavor profile.
6. Vegan Milkshake – Blend some frozen bananas with almond milk for a thick shake that matches perfectly with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls.

• Using the wrong type of flour: Always use all-purpose flour for the best texture. Avoid whole wheat flour as it can make bars dense.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise measurements. This ensures consistent results every time.
• Skipping the chilling step: Allowing the bars to chill helps them set properly. Skipping this can result in a gooey texture that is hard to cut.
• Overbaking the bars: Keep an eye on your baking time. Overbaking makes the bars dry and crumbly instead of soft and chewy.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Make sure your vegan butter and creamer are at room temperature. This helps ingredients blend smoothly for a better outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place bars on a baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds, checking to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and heat for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars.

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour. Make sure to choose one that works well for baking.

How do I customize my Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or different flavors of vegan chocolate chips to personalize your bars even more!

How long do these bars take to prepare?

The total preparation time is around 40 minutes, but remember to account for chilling time before cutting.

Are these bars nut-free?

To make them nut-free, replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or another nut-free alternative.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Cookie Dough Caramel Bars are not only delightful but also versatile. You can easily customize them with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing with friends, these bars are sure to impress everyone! Give this recipe a try and enjoy the sweet satisfaction it brings!