Homemade Absolutely Gluten Free Vanilla Chocolate Chip Blondie Crunch Recipe: Better Than Store-Bought, Healthier Too!

Category: Gluten-Free Snack Bars

Introduction

Absolutely Gluten Free Vanilla Chocolate Chip Blondie Crunch is a beloved snack bar known for its chewy texture, sweet vanilla flavor, and bursts of chocolate chips. The brand has gained a loyal following among those with gluten intolerance and anyone seeking a tasty, gluten-free treat. However, store-bought options can be pricey and may contain added preservatives. Making this homemade version allows you to enjoy a fresher, healthier, and customizable snack without compromising on flavor.

I remember my friend, Sarah, who first introduced me to these bars. She raved about their convenience and taste, but I was curious if I could replicate them at home. After several trials and tweaks, I nailed a recipe that not only mimics the original but also offers better nutritional value. This homemade version uses wholesome ingredients, less sugar, and optional add-ins to suit your preferences. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make and costs less than buying a box at the store!

Why Make It at Home?

• Cost-Effective: Homemade batches save money compared to store-bought options.
• Customization: Tailor the recipe to your taste with different mix-ins or dietary preferences.
• Healthier Ingredients: Use less sugar, healthier fats, and whole ingredients for better nutrition.
• Freshness: Enjoy your bars when they’re freshest, with no preservatives or additives.

Personal Anecdote

I vividly remember the first time I tasted these blondie crunch bars. They were chewy, buttery, and had just the right amount of sweetness. But as much as I loved them, I wanted to create a version that aligned with my preference for cleaner, whole-food ingredients. After some trial and error, I developed this recipe, which my family and friends now swear by. It’s a staple in our household, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Recipe Details

• **Prep Time:10 minutes
• **Cook Time:18-20 minutes
• **Total Time:28-30 minutes
• **Yield:12-16 bars (depending on size)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups (240g) gluten-free all-purpose flour (or 1 1/2 cups almond flour for a grain-free version)
• 1/2 cup (60g) unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp (5g) baking soda
• 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt
• 1 tsp (5g) vanilla powder

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp (15ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (60ml) unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)

Add-Ins:

• 1 cup (120g) dairy-free chocolate chips (or regular chocolate chips if not dairy-free)
• Optional: 1/2 cup (60g) chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds work well)

Instructions

• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
• Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, unsweetened shredded coconut, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and vanilla powder.
• Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
• Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts: Gently fold in the chocolate chips and nuts (if using).
• Press Dough into Pan: Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish and press it down firmly with a spatula or your hands until it’s evenly spread.
• Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The center should still be soft but not runny.
• Cool and Cut: Let the blondies cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. For a cleaner cut, refrigerate the cooled blondies for 10 minutes before slicing.

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks for freshness.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or refrigerate before serving.

Variations

• Low-Sugar Version: Replace half the sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper for a unique twist.
• Nutty Version: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use flax eggs and dairy-free milk to make the recipe vegan.

Special Equipment

• Baking dish (8x8-inch)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons

Pro Tips

• Don’t Overbake: Take the blondies out while the center is still soft to ensure they stay chewy.
• Press Firmly: Pressing the dough evenly into the pan ensures uniform baking.
• Cool Completely: Letting the blondies cool completely before cutting helps them set properly and prevents crumbling.

Nutritional Comparison

FAQ

• Can I use fresh ingredients instead of processed ones?
  Yes! Replace the chocolate chips with chopped dark chocolate for a fresher taste.

• What if the dough is too sticky?
  Add a little more gluten-free flour or unsweetened shredded coconut until the dough reaches the desired consistency.

• Can I make this recipe vegan?
  Yes, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) and dairy-free milk.

• How do I ensure the blondies are chewy?
  Avoid overbaking. The blondies should be soft in the center when removed from the oven.

• Can I scale the recipe for large batches?
  Absolutely! Double or triple the ingredients and bake in a larger pan.

Serving Suggestions

• Snack On the Go: Perfect for lunchboxes, hiking, or quick snacks.
• Breakfast Option: Pair with a smoothie or yogurt for a satisfying breakfast.
• Dessert: Top with a scoop of ice cream for a decadent treat.

Conclusion

This homemade version of Absolutely Gluten Free Vanilla Chocolate Chip Blondie Crunch is a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthier, more customizable snack. With fewer calories, less sugar, and the freedom to add your favorite mix-ins, this recipe is a win-win. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll never buy the store-bought version again! Don’t forget to share your creations and tag me in your baking adventures—I’d love to see how you make this recipe your own!