Introduction
Imagine the delightful aroma of freshly baked pecan pie wafting through your kitchen, tempting your taste buds with its sweet and nutty fragrance. Pecan pie is a classic dessert that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, making it a beloved treat for gatherings and holidays. In this article, we will explore a delectable variation of this traditional favorite with our easy pecan pie bars recipe. These gluten-free, vegan pecan pie bars offer all the flavors of a classic pecan pie but in a convenient and portable bar form.
Our pecan pie bars with shortbread crust are a delightful twist on the traditional pie, combining the rich flavors of pecans with a buttery and crumbly shortbread base. Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative or catering to dietary restrictions, these bars are sure to impress with their delicious taste and texture. Let’s dive into the world of pecan pie bars and discover why they are a must-try for any dessert lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These best southern pecan pie bars are not only a treat for your taste buds but also a joy to make. The easy pecan pie bars recipe simplifies the process of creating this beloved dessert, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie with minimal effort. Whether you follow a gluten-free, vegan, or keto lifestyle, these bars cater to various dietary preferences, making them a versatile and inclusive dessert option.
The healthy pecan pie bars recipe offers a guilt-free indulgence, allowing you to satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising on flavor or quality. With no corn syrup pecan pie bars, you can enjoy a natural sweetness that complements the nutty pecans perfectly. These homemade pecan pie bars are ideal for holidays and special occasions, providing a festive touch to your dessert spread.
Ingredients
For this easy pecan pie bars recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– Pecans: 1 cup, chopped
– Almond flour: 1 cup
– Maple syrup: 1/2 cup
– Coconut oil: 1/3 cup, melted
– Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
– Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
– Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
– For the shortbread crust:
– Almond flour: 1 1/2 cups
– Coconut oil: 1/4 cup, melted
– Maple syrup: 1/4 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup to form the shortbread crust dough.
3. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
4. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
5. In another bowl, mix the chopped pecans, almond flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon to create the pecan pie filling.
6. Spread the pecan filling over the cooled crust and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set.
7. Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely before slicing into squares and serving.
Expert Tips for Success
– Make sure to chop the pecans finely for a more even distribution of nuts in the filling.
– For a richer flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the filling mixture.
– Refrigerate the bars for a few hours after baking to help them set and enhance the flavors.
– Experiment with different nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor variations.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to customize these pecan pie bars to suit your preferences:
– Swap almond flour for oat flour for a nut-free version.
– Use ghee or butter instead of coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
– Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast.
– Incorporate chocolate chips or dried fruit into the filling for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan pie bars with maple syrup are delicious on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. For a festive touch, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving. Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these pecan pie bars ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the bars in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze these pecan pie bars?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 1 month. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these chewy pecan pie bars offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to please your palate. Whether you’re looking for a healthier dessert option or simply craving a taste of the holidays, these bars are a perfect choice. With their easy preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, these pecan pie bars are ideal for Christmas gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in. Try this recipe today and savor the rich, nutty goodness of homemade pecan pie bars.
Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Enjoy the rich flavors of pecans in a convenient and portable bar form with these gluten-free, vegan pecan pie bars. The buttery and crumbly shortbread crust complements the nutty pecan filling perfectly, creating a delicious and guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour (for shortbread crust)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil (for shortbread crust)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (for shortbread crust)
Directions
-
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
-
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups almond flour, 1/4 cup melted coconut oil, and 1/4 cup maple syrup to form the shortbread crust dough.
-
Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form an even layer.
-
Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from the oven and let it cool.
-
In another bowl, mix chopped pecans, almond flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon to create the pecan pie filling.
-
Spread the pecan filling over the cooled crust and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until set.
-
Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely before slicing into squares and serving.
