Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

If you’re on the hunt for a decadent dessert that fits into your paleo lifestyle, look no further than these Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars. These bars are not just any ordinary dessert; they’re rich, chewy, and packed with chocolate goodness. Made with wholesome ingredients, they satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your health goals. Perfect for an afternoon snack or a post-dinner treat, these cookie bars are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars lies in their simple yet effective ingredient list. By using almond flour and tapioca flour, we achieve a chewy texture that mimics traditional cookie bars without the gluten. The combination of ghee or coconut oil with pure maple syrup provides a rich flavor profile while keeping the bars moist and delicious. Plus, these cookie bars are quick to whip up, making them an ideal dessert for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredient Rundown

• Ghee or Coconut Oil: Both serve as healthy fats that add richness and moisture to the bars.
• Pure Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor without refined sugars.
• Large Egg: Acts as a binder, helping the bars hold their shape and providing a fluffy texture.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the chocolate chips.
• Finely Ground Almond Flour: A gluten-free base that gives structure and a nutty flavor.
• Tapioca Flour: Helps to achieve the perfect chewy texture in the bars.
• Ground Cinnamon: A warm spice that elevates the flavor profile.
• Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the bars rise slightly.
• Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Chocolate Chips: The star of the show, providing melty pockets of chocolate in every bite.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your wet and dry ingredients.
• Spatula: Essential for mixing and spreading the batter in the baking dish.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key to achieving the perfect texture.
• Baking Dish (8×8-inch): A square dish to bake your cookie bars to perfection.
• Parchment Paper: For easy removal and cleanup after baking.

Mastering Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars: How-To

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your cookie bars.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang to make it easy to lift the bars out later.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of ghee or coconut oil, ⅓ cup of pure maple syrup, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Whisk together until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix together 1 ½ cups of finely ground almond flour, ¼ cup of tapioca flour, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of sea salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Fold in 1 ½ cups of chocolate chips.

Step 6: Spread the Batter

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly using a spatula. Sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top for that sweet and salty contrast.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow the cookie bars to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out. Let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars.

Dietary Customizations

• Nut-Free: Substitute almond flour with sunflower seed flour or a nut-free gluten-free flour blend.
• Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, mixed and allowed to sit for 5 minutes).
• Low-Sugar: Reduce the amount of maple syrup to ¼ cup or substitute with a low-carb sweetener.
• Chocolate Alternatives: Use dark chocolate chips or cocoa nibs for a different flavor twist.

Missteps & Fixes

• Bars Are Crumbly: This may happen if the almond flour is too coarse. Ensure you use finely ground almond flour for the best texture.
• Too Sweet: If you find the bars too sweet, try reducing the amount of maple syrup or using a less sweet chocolate chip.
• Overbaked: Keep a close eye on your bars towards the end of the baking time to avoid dryness.
• Sticking to the Pan: If your bars stick despite using parchment paper, lightly greasing the paper can help.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

To keep your Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Absolutely! You can use honey, agave syrup, or a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener as a substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?

The cookie bars are done when the edges are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking to keep them chewy!

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the balance of dry and wet ingredients.

What’s the best way to slice these bars without them falling apart?

Make sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing. Using a sharp knife and cutting in a gentle, sawing motion can help maintain their shape.

The Last Word

These Paleo Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet cravings while sticking to your health-conscious principles. With their gooey chocolate centers and wholesome ingredients, they are perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all on your own. So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to indulge in a treat that’s both delicious and nourishing. You won’t regret it!