Vegan Snickers Bars

Vegan Snickers Bars are a plant-based take on the classic candy bar, featuring layers of soft almond flour nougat, creamy date caramel, crunchy peanuts, and a rich dark chocolate coating. Made without refined sugars, dairy, or gluten, these bars offer all the indulgence of a traditional Snickers bar in a wholesome, homemade form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those seeking a decadent yet nourishing dessert or snack. The bars are naturally sweetened, vegan, and gluten-free, and they require no baking—just simple layering and chilling. They’re rich, chewy, and packed with flavor, making them ideal for satisfying sweet cravings without processed ingredients.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the nougat layer

• almond flour

• maple syrup

• peanut butter

• vanilla extract

• salt

For the caramel peanut layer

• pitted dates, soaked

• peanut butter

• coconut oil

• vanilla extract

• chopped peanuts

For the chocolate coating

• dark chocolate, melted

• coconut oil

Directions

1. Prepare the pan: Line an 8-inch square pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Make the nougat layer: In a bowl, combine almond flour, maple syrup, peanut butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until a dough forms. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Freeze for 10 minutes to set.

3. Make the caramel layer: In a food processor, blend soaked dates, peanut butter, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Spread the caramel evenly over the nougat layer. Sprinkle the chopped peanuts over the caramel. Return the pan to the freezer for 20 minutes.

4. Coat with chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate with coconut oil until smooth. Remove the chilled layers from the pan and slice into bars. Dip each bar into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place on parchment paper and allow the chocolate to set.

5. Chill and serve: Chill the bars until firm. Store refrigerated and serve chilled.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 10 bars.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Calories: approximately 320 kcal per bar

Variations

• Nut variations: Substitute peanuts with almonds, cashews, or hazelnuts.

• Chocolate choice: Use sugar-free or stevia-sweetened dark chocolate for a lower-sugar option.

• Extra crunch: Add puffed rice or quinoa to the nougat or caramel layer.

• Salted caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the chocolate coating before it sets for a salted caramel effect.

Storage/reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Thaw briefly at room temperature before serving. These bars are best enjoyed chilled to maintain their shape and texture.

FAQs

Can I make these bars nut-free?

Yes, you can replace almond flour with sunflower seed flour and use sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter.

What type of dates work best for the caramel?

Medjool dates are ideal because of their natural softness and sweetness, but any soft pitted dates will work.

How do I prevent the chocolate coating from cracking?

Let the bars rest at room temperature for a few minutes before dipping in chocolate to reduce temperature shock.

Can I skip the coconut oil in the chocolate coating?

You can, but the coconut oil helps the chocolate set with a smoother, shinier finish.

Is it possible to make these bars without a food processor?

You can mash the dates by hand or with a fork if they are soft enough, though the texture will be less smooth.

How can I make the bars less sweet?

Reduce the maple syrup slightly in the nougat layer and use extra-dark chocolate (85% or higher).

Can I use store-bought vegan caramel instead of making my own?

Yes, a store-bought vegan caramel can be used as a time-saving option.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use another sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Agave syrup or date syrup can be used as alternatives to maple syrup.

How do I get clean slices without smudging the chocolate?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry before slicing.

Conclusion

Vegan Snickers Bars are a delicious homemade treat that combines familiar flavors in a healthier, plant-based format. With their layers of creamy, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness, they’re sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Simple to prepare and customizable to your preferences, these bars are perfect for snacking, sharing, or storing for a quick dessert anytime.