If you’ve been searching for a delightful treat that’s both indulgent and mindful of dietary preferences, look no further than the 5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!). This luscious dessert combines the rich, chocolatey essence of traditional brownies with the ease of a bark that you can whip up in no time. The combination of wholesome almond flour, silky coconut oil, and the deep flavors from cocoa and chocolate chips makes this bark a fantastic snack or sweet finish to any meal. Plus, being vegan and gluten-free means it’s perfect for sharing with friends and family who appreciate simple, clean ingredients without sacrificing taste.

5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!) Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully straightforward with only five key ingredients, yet each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect texture and flavor balance. These essentials deliver the magic, from the nutty base to the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate topping.

Almond flour: A naturally gluten-free flour that provides a tender, slightly nutty foundation for the bark.
Cocoa powder: Adds depth and rich chocolate flavor without any added fat.
Melted coconut oil: Binds ingredients together while contributing a subtle tropical richness and healthy fats.
Maple syrup: Provides natural sweetness and a touch of complexity with its warm flavor profile.
Chocolate chips, divided: Part folded into the batter for a gooey surprise, with the rest melted on top for a glossy, decadent finish.

How to Make 5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!)

Step 1: Mix Your Batter

Start by combining the almond flour, cocoa powder, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup in a mixing bowl. This creates a thick, fudgy base that’s both flavorful and pliable. Once the dry and wet ingredients come together, fold in half a cup of chocolate chips. These chips add little bursts of melty texture as you bite into the bark.

Step 2: Shape the Bark

Line a small baking sheet or a large plate with parchment paper to prevent sticking, then transfer the brownie batter mixture onto it. Use your hands to spread and flatten the mixture into a large, even piece of bark. Don’t worry about it being perfectly smooth—it just needs to be even enough for the next layer.

Step 3: Add the Chocolate Layer

Melt the remaining chocolate chips until glossy and smooth—this is easiest done gently over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently. Pour this melted chocolate over the flattened batter and spread it into an even layer. This luscious coat is what turns the bark into a truly indulgent treat.

Step 4: Chill to Set

Place the prepared bark in the freezer for at least one hour. This chilling step helps firm up both layers, making it easy to break or cut the bark into large, satisfying pieces that hold their shape beautifully.

How to Serve 5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!)

Garnishes

Even though the bark shines on its own, you can elevate it by sprinkling flaky sea salt on top just before chilling to enhance the chocolate’s richness. Another fun option is to add crushed nuts or shredded coconut for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This brownie batter bark makes a perfect complement to fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries, where the tartness beautifully contrasts the sweet, chocolatey notes. It’s also lovely paired with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, break the bark into bite-sized pieces and serve it in a decorative bowl or on a wooden platter layered with parchment for a rustic touch. You can also sandwich small pieces between vegan cookies to create unique, portable brownie batter bark bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The 5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!) keeps best when stored in an airtight container in the freezer. This prevents moisture from making the bark soggy and preserves that perfect chewy-crisp texture.

Freezing

Freezing is ideal for this dessert since the coconut oil solidifies, helping the bark maintain its shape and firmness. Just wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe bag, and it will stay fresh for several weeks.

Reheating

Because this treat is best enjoyed chilled, reheating isn’t necessary. If it softens too much at room temperature, simply pop it back in the freezer for 10 to 15 minutes to restore that satisfying crispness and firmness.

FAQs

Can I use a different flour instead of almond flour?

Almond flour is ideal here because it’s gluten-free and adds that lovely, nutty flavor and moist texture. However, you can experiment with other nut flours like hazelnut or cashew flour if you’re looking for a different twist, but avoid grain-based flours to keep it gluten-free.

What type of chocolate chips work best for this recipe?

Look for vegan and dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the recipe fully vegan. Dark chocolate chips with at least 60% cacao work wonderfully to provide rich chocolate flavor without excessive sweetness.

Is maple syrup the only sweetener I can use?

Maple syrup brings a unique flavor, but you can substitute it with agave nectar or brown rice syrup to keep it vegan-friendly. Avoid refined sugars if you want to maintain the wholesome nature of the bark.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the bark?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cherries into the batter for extra texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the added moisture from dried fruit, which might affect the bark’s firmness slightly.

How long does the bark last in the freezer?

Stored properly in an airtight container, this bark will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 weeks. Beyond that, it might start to lose its ideal texture and flavor intensity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dessert that’s unexpectedly simple yet absolutely indulgent, I wholeheartedly recommend giving the 5 Ingredient Brownie Batter Bark (vegan and gluten-free!) a try. It’s the perfect little treat to keep on hand for whenever you need a chocolate fix with no fuss. Plus, knowing it’s vegan and gluten-free means everyone can join in on the delicious fun!