How do I know when it is done?

Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.

Can I change the flavor?

Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.

What should beginners watch most closely?

Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

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Gluten-Free Baking

Nut-Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Blondie Bars Sweetened with Coconut Sugar

Name: Nut-Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Blondie Bars Sweetened with Coconut Sugar
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (containing xanthan gum recommended); 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup coconut sugar; ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or mild vegetable oil like canola); ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (egg replacer); ⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk or other dairy-free milk; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (ensure nut-free and vegan); 2 tablespoons maple syrup for added moistness (omit for lower sugar)

By Beginnerbakes Test KitchenReviewed by Beginnerbakes Editorial TeamPublished Apr 20, 2026 · Updated Jul 11, 2026

American 40 mins beginner-friendlyeasystep-by-stepgluten-freevegan-optionsdairy-freenut-freechocolatelow-sugarno-fusssnackminimal-ingredientsfreezer-friendly

These chewy, nut-free vegan chocolate chip blondie bars are naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, making them an ideal allergy-friendly and gluten-free snack. Easy to make with simple ingredients, perfect for beginners seeking a dairy-free, vegan treat.

Nut-Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Blondie Bars Sweetened with Coconut Sugar

Prep 10 min

Cook 30 min

Total 40 min

Servings 12

Difficulty easy

Cuisine American

Ingredients

Servings 12

1 ½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (containing xanthan gum recommended)
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup coconut sugar
¼ cup melted coconut oil (or mild vegetable oil like canola)
¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (egg replacer)
⅓ cup unsweetened almond milk or other dairy-free milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips (ensure nut-free and vegan)
2 tablespoons maple syrup for added moistness (omit for lower sugar)

BeginnerBakes nut-free vegan chocolate chip blondie bar ingredients

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease or line an 8x8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
In a large bowl, mix coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, applesauce, dairy-free milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain tender blondies.
Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips evenly.
Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
Bake 25-30 minutes until edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
Cool completely in pan on a wire rack before slicing into 12 bars.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze up to 1 month.

BeginnerBakes vegan chocolate chip blondie batter spread in a pan before baking

Tips

Equipment Needed

Essential equipment for making these Nut-Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Blondie Bars includes: 8x8-inch square baking pan : Ensures even baking. Parchment paper : For easy removal and cleanup. Mixing bowls : One medium bowl for dry ingredients, one large bowl for wet ingredients.

Ingredient Prep Notes

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend with xanthan gum to achieve the best chewy texture. If your blend lacks xanthan gum, add ¼ teaspoon separately. Lightly pack coconut sugar when measuring to prevent over-sweetening.

Oven Note

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure even baking and perfect chewy blondies. Use an oven thermometer if possible to confirm accurate temperature. Place the baking pan in the center rack for balanced heat distribution.

Easy Upgrade Ideas

Try these simple upgrades to add flavor and texture to your nut-free vegan chocolate chip blondie bars while keeping the recipe beginner-friendly and allergy-safe: Sea salt sprinkle: Add flaky sea salt on top before baking for a delightful sweet-salty contrast. Dried fruit: Fold in ¼ cup chopped dried cranberries or cherries for fruity chewiness. Warm spices: Mix ½ teaspoon cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg into dry ingredients for cozy notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Nut-Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Blondie Bars Sweetened with Coconut Sugar ahead?: Yes. Bake it ahead, cool it fully, and store it as directed so the texture stays as close to fresh as possible.
How do I know when it is done?: Use the timing as a guide, then check the center with the recipe's doneness cue, such as a clean toothpick, set edges, bubbling filling, or a gently springy top.
Can I change the flavor?: Yes. Keep changes small the first time, such as adding citrus zest, spice, chocolate, nuts, or a simple glaze that matches the recipe.
What should beginners watch most closely?: Measure carefully, avoid overmixing batters or doughs, and let the bake cool long enough before slicing, glazing, or storing.

Ingredient Replacements

½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (containing xanthan gum recommended): Use whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier bake or a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed, checking texture before baking.
baking powder: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: Use a similar baking ingredient and adjust moisture gradually so the batter or dough keeps the same texture.
½ cup coconut sugar: Swap with a similar sweetener in small adjustments because liquid sweeteners can change browning and moisture.
¼ cup melted coconut oil (or mild vegetable oil like canola): Use melted butter, neutral oil, or a plant-based baking stick in the same amount, knowing that flavor and tenderness may shift slightly.

Storage and Reheating

Cool leftovers before storing. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze when the ingredients are freezer-friendly.

Read related air fryer guides and cooking tips.

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Nut-Free Vegan Chocolate Chip Blondie Bars Sweetened with Coconut Sugar

Recipe Details

Ingredients

Instructions