Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars are a deliciously soft and healthy twist on classic sugar cookies. Made with wholesome ingredients and an optional protein boost, they are perfect for a satisfying snack or dessert. The creamy frosting adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the bars.
Ingredients
- 2 cups organic fine almond flour
- 1/3 cup monk fruit sweetener (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons organic softened coconut oil (or grass-fed butter)
- 4 tablespoons plain, nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 large organic eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 30g protein powder (optional, for a high protein version; recommended brand: Truvani)
- 4 oz organic cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- 15g vanilla protein powder (for frosting; use code KATIE20 for 20% off Truvani protein)
- Sprinkle of monk fruit sweetener (for frosting)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2-3 teaspoons unsweetened almond milk (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and line a square baking dish with parchment paper.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the almond flour, protein powder (if using), monk fruit, baking powder, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in the eggs, softened coconut oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and thick.
- Bake the crust: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the center is puffed and the edges are golden. Let cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting: In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, vanilla protein powder, vanilla extract, and almond milk (start with 2 teaspoons). Adjust the milk to reach your preferred frosting consistency. Add a sprinkle of monk fruit sweetener if you want it sweeter.
- Frost and chill: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Slice into 16 squares and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For a dairy-free option, replace Greek yogurt and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth and flavor.
- If you don’t have monk fruit sweetener, use erythritol or your favorite low-carb sweetener instead.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier frosting preparation and a smoother texture.
Storage
Store the cookie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before serving. When ready to eat, let the bars come to room temperature or enjoy chilled for a firmer texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I omit the protein powder?
Yes, the protein powder is optional. Leaving it out will slightly change the texture but the bars will still be delicious and tender.
Can I make these bars gluten-free and keto-friendly?
Absolutely! Using almond flour and monk fruit sweetener keeps this recipe gluten-free and low in carbs, making it a great fit for keto and gluten-free diets.
PrintAlmond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
These Almond Flour Sugar Cookie Bars are a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional sugar cookies, made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour, monk fruit sweetener, and optional protein powder for an added nutritional boost. Topped with a creamy protein-enhanced vanilla frosting, these bars are perfect for a guilt-free treat that is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups organic fine almond flour
- 1/3 cup monk fruit sweetener (or sweetener of choice)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons organic softened coconut oil (or grass-fed butter)
- 4 tablespoons plain, nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 large organic eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 30g protein powder (optional, preferred brand: Truvani)
For the Frosting:
- 4 oz organic cream cheese (softened)
- 15g vanilla protein powder (Truvani recommended, use code KATIE20 for 20% off)
- Sprinkle of monk fruit sweetener
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 teaspoons unsweetened almond milk
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and line a square baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow easy removal of the cookie bars.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the almond flour, protein powder (if using), monk fruit sweetener, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, softened coconut oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract to the dry mixture. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, thick batter forms.
- Spread and Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the center is puffed up and the edges turn golden brown.
- Cool Completely: Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool completely to room temperature before frosting.
- Prepare Frosting: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, vanilla protein powder, vanilla extract, and a few teaspoons of almond milk. Mix until smooth and spreadable. Add a sprinkle of monk fruit sweetener to taste if a sweeter frosting is desired.
- Frost the Bars: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.
- Chill and Serve: Slice the frosted bars into 16 squares, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting, and enjoy your delicious almond flour sugar cookie bars.
Notes
- You can substitute coconut oil with grass-fed butter if preferred for a richer flavor.
- Protein powder is optional but adds a nice nutritional boost especially for post-workout snacks.
- The monk fruit sweetener can be replaced with your preferred low-carb sweetener if desired.
- Ensure bars are cooled completely before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.
- Store bars in the refrigerator to keep the frosting firm and fresh for up to 5 days.
Keywords: Almond Flour Sugar Cookies, Low Carb Dessert, Keto Cookie Bars, Gluten Free Sugar Cookies, Protein Cookie Bars, Healthy Frosting
