How to Make Soft and Tasty Gluten Free Dessert Bars

Gluten free dessert bars can be just as delightful and satisfying as their traditional counterparts.

Using gluten free flours and thoughtfully chosen ingredients, these bars offer a chewy, tender bite with all the flavor you crave—without any gluten worries.

You need to carefully blend gluten free flour blends with binders like xanthan gum or flax eggs to get the right texture.

I suggest mixing in nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor and interest.

Baking gluten free bars fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma and gives you a dessert everyone can enjoy, whether gluten sensitive or not.

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Recipe Overview

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Ingredients

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Tools You’ll Need (with Alternatives)

• 8×8 inch baking pan (or 9×9 inch pan)
• Large mixing bowl (or medium bowl)
• Electric mixer or whisk (or fork)
• Measuring cups and spoons (or digital scale)
• Rubber spatula (or wooden spoon)
• Parchment paper (or greased foil)

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How to Make Gluten Free Dessert Bars

Making gluten free bars involves mixing a tender batter that holds together well without gluten’s stretchy texture.

Here’s the step-by-step to get chewy, rich bars every time.

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Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper or grease well so bars release easily.

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Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This aerates the mixture, giving your bars a tender crumb.

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Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance flavor.

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Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk gluten free flour, xanthan gum (or guar gum), and a pinch of salt to distribute ingredients evenly.

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Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, which can toughen the bars.

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Step 6: Fold in Mix-ins

Gently fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for texture and bursts of flavor.

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Step 7: Transfer Batter and Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface. Bake for about 30 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

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Step 8: Cool and Slice

Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares for neat pieces.

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Decoration & Serving Tips

• Dust bars with powdered sugar or cocoa for a pretty touch
• Drizzle melted chocolate or vegan caramel for indulgence
• Serve alongside fresh berries or dairy-free whipped cream
• Pack bars individually for easy snacks

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Variations to Try

• Almond Joy Bars: Add shredded coconut and chopped almonds
• Mocha Bars: Mix in instant coffee powder with chocolate chips
• Citrus Bars: Add orange or lemon zest to the batter
• Berry Burst Bars: Fold in freeze-dried berries or fresh fruit pieces

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Storing Tips

• Store bars in airtight container at room temperature for 3 days
• Refrigerate to extend freshness up to 7 days
• Freeze individually wrapped bars for up to 2 months

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Extra Tips

• Use a trusted gluten free flour blend with xanthan gum included or add separately
• Measure flour accurately to avoid dense bars
• Let bars cool completely for clean slicing
• Use parchment paper for easy removal and less mess

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Common Mistakes & Fixes

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Let’s Bake and Share Gluten Free Dessert Bars

Gluten free dessert bars bring sweetness and comfort to everyone’s table.

Try this recipe and share your favorite add-ins or baking tips in the comments below!