Ever craved a dessert that’s both indulgent and easy to make? I remember hosting a last-minute gathering and needing something quick yet impressive. That’s when I discovered this no-bake recipe from the Nourishing Vegan Every Day cookbook. It’s a plant-based twist on classic millionaire shortbread, with a bold mocha flavor that’s impossible to resist.
What makes these bars stand out are the three distinct layers. A crunchy crust forms the base, followed by a velvety espresso caramel layer, and finally, a rich topping that ties it all together. The best part? No oven is required, making it perfect for busy days or spontaneous cravings.
Whether you’re planning a party, looking for a thoughtful gift, or simply treating yourself, this recipe yields 10 bars, ideal for sharing or portioning. Plus, it’s dairy-free and can be made gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Trust me, these bars are a crowd-pleaser every time!
Why You’ll Love These Vegan Chocolate Espresso Caramel Bars
Looking for a dessert that’s both satisfying and simple? This recipe combines the bold bitterness of coffee with the smooth sweetness of caramel for a flavor explosion. It’s a treat that’s as indulgent as it is easy to make.
What sets this recipe apart is its use of wholesome ingredients. Think coconut oil, maple syrup, and other pantry staples. There’s no need for refined sugars or artificial additives, making it a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the textures to your liking—crunchy pecans or smooth caramel? The choice is yours. Plus, it’s allergy-friendly, with options like nut butter alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
Need a make-ahead dessert? These bars are freezer-friendly, so you can prepare them in advance and enjoy them whenever the craving strikes. They’re also faster to make than traditional baked desserts, perfect for busy days.
For more inspiration on using wholesome ingredients, check out this guide.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Flavor Balance | Perfect mix of bitter coffee and sweet caramel |
| Ingredients | Wholesome, pantry-friendly, and allergy-friendly |
| Preparation | No-bake, freezer-friendly, and quick to make |
| Versatility | Customizable textures and suitable for various diets |
Tools and Utensils You’ll Need
Ready to whip up a dessert that’s both quick and impressive? Before diving in, let’s gather the essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand ensures smooth preparation and perfect results every time.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Here’s a list of must-have items to make this recipe a breeze. Each tool plays a key role in creating the layers and ensuring the dessert sets perfectly.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Food Processor | Creates a uniform texture for the crust |
| Loaf Pan | Ensures the perfect thickness for the bars |
| Parchment Paper | Prevents sticking and makes removal easy |
| Double Boiler | Melts the topping smoothly without burning |
| Sharp Knife | Provides clean cuts through the layers |
| Mixing Bowls | Keeps ingredients separate during prep |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensures precise ingredient quantities |
| Rubber Spatula | Scrapes mixtures efficiently |
| Baking Tray | Holds the pan during chilling |
With these tools ready, you’re all set to create a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. Don’t forget to allow at least 1 hour for chilling—it’s worth the wait!
Ingredients for Vegan Chocolate Espresso Caramel Bars
Want to create a dessert that’s both rich and simple to prepare? Let’s start by gathering the ingredients. Each layer of this treat requires specific components to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Crust
The crust forms the foundation of this dessert. It’s nutty, crunchy, and packed with flavor. Here’s the exact breakdown:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rolled oats | 1¼ cup |
| Ground almonds | ½ cup |
| Pecans | ½ cup |
| Ground coffee | 1 tablespoon |
| Cocoa powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Cashew or almond butter | ¼ cup |
| Melted coconut oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Maple syrup | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
For the Caramel
The caramel layer is smooth, velvety, and infused with a hint of coffee. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cashew or almond butter | ½ cup |
| Maple syrup | ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons |
| Melted coconut oil | ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon |
| Instant coffee | 1 teaspoon (dissolved in 1 teaspoon hot water) |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
For the Topping
The topping ties everything together with a rich, indulgent finish. Here’s the list:
- Vegan chocolate: 3 ounces, chopped
- Coffee beans (optional, for garnish)
- Cacao nibs (optional, for garnish)
- Flaky salt (optional, for garnish)
For more tips on selecting the best ingredients, check out this guide. With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to create a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Vegan Chocolate Espresso Caramel Bars
Craving a treat that’s both decadent and effortless to prepare? Follow these detailed instructions to create a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Each step is designed to ensure perfect layers and a flawless finish.
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by lining a loaf pan with parchment paper, ensuring it overhangs the sides for easy removal. In a food processor, combine rolled oats, ground almonds, pecans, ground coffee, and cocoa powder. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add cashew or almond butter, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and salt. Pulse again until the mixture holds together when pressed. Test the crust’s cohesion by squeezing a small amount in your hand. If it sticks, it’s ready.
Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, ensuring an even layer. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
In a mixing bowl, combine cashew or almond butter, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and salt. Dissolve a teaspoon of instant coffee in a teaspoon of hot water, then add it to the mixture. Stir until smooth and velvety.
Pour the caramel over the chilled crust, spreading it evenly with a rubber spatula. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes until the caramel is firm.
Step 3: Add the Chocolate Topping
Using a double boiler, melt 3 ounces of chopped vegan chocolate until smooth. Let it cool slightly, then pour it over the caramel layer. Tilt the pan to ensure even coverage.
If desired, garnish with coffee beans, cacao nibs, or a sprinkle of flaky salt. Chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set completely.
Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Use a warm knife to slice them into 10 even pieces for clean cuts.
| Layer | Thickness Guideline |
|---|---|
| Crust | ¼ inch |
| Caramel | ¼ inch |
| Chocolate Topping | Thin, even layer |
Enjoy Your Vegan Chocolate Espresso Caramel Bars!
Ready to enjoy a treat that’s both indulgent and simple? These bars are perfect for sharing with friends or savoring solo. Serve them chilled for the best texture and flavor. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the rich notes of coffee beans and cacao nibs.
For gifting, wrap each bar individually in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon. They also freeze well for up to a month, making them a convenient make-ahead dessert. If you have leftover vegan chocolate, save it for another recipe or drizzle it over fresh fruit.
Feel free to experiment with seasonal variations, like adding a hint of peppermint or warming spices. For more tips on creating delicious plant-based treats, check out this guide. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media—your friends will thank you!