When autumn arrives and the air turns crisp, I often find myself craving the warm, inviting flavors of pecan pie. A recent afternoon spent rummaging through the pantry led me to create a luscious treat that embraces the essence of traditional pecan pie while catering to modern dietary preferences. Enter my Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars—your new go-to dessert that’s not only gluten-free but also free of refined sugars!
With a delightful almond flour crust and a sticky, sweet filling made from coconut sugar and pure maple syrup, these bars are a perfect harmonious blend of health and indulgence. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply want a guilt-free dessert to enjoy during the week, these bars promise to satisfy both your cravings and your conscience. Best of all, they come together effortlessly—making your cooking experience as enjoyable as the delicious results! Get ready to fall in love with a healthier version of a classic favorite that everyone will adore.
Why love Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars?
Indulgent yet guilt-free, these bars deliver all the deliciousness of traditional pecan pie without the unhealthy extras. Simple to make, a handful of wholesome ingredients come together quickly for a satisfying treat. Flavor explosion with each bite, featuring a chewy filling and crunchy pecan topping that’s hard to resist. Versatile delights—enjoy them alone or with coconut cream for an extra touch of luxury. Perfect for gatherings, they’re sure to impress your guests while keeping your dietary goals on track!
Ingredients for Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars
• Here’s what you’ll need!
For the Crust
- Almond Flour – Provides a sturdy gluten-free base; don’t substitute for best results.
- Coconut Oil – Adds richness and moisture; melted butter or vegan butter can work as alternatives.
- Pure Maple Syrup – Sweetens and adds moisture to both crust and filling; honey serves as another option.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses flavor into the entire bar, enhancing its deliciousness.
- Salt – Enhances the overall taste; can be reduced for lower sodium diets.
For the Filling
- Coconut Sugar – Gives a caramel-like sweetness to the filling; brown sugar can be a suitable substitute.
- Pecans – The star ingredient that adds crunch and that classic pecan flavor; walnuts are an alternative if desired.
For Topping
- Fancy Maldon Sea Salt – Adds tiny bursts of flavor that contrast beautifully against the sweetness; completely optional.
Unleash the delightful flavors of these Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars with these simple yet wholesome ingredients!
How to Make Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch square pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the almond flour, melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 6-7 minutes until lightly golden.
Cook the filling: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine coconut sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the mixture starts bubbling, then fold in the chopped pecans and continue cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
Combine and bake: Pour the pecan filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 17-20 minutes until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least one hour before cutting into squares. If they seem hard to cut, leave them at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
Optional: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic choice when you’re looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the crust and pecan filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container. The pecan filling can be cooked and kept in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling over the crust and bake as instructed. This method not only saves effort but ensures your bars are just as delicious, giving you that fresh-baked taste even on the busiest days!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars
Fridge: Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This keeps them fresh and ready for when your sweet tooth strikes!
Freezer: Freeze these delicious Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before indulging.
Cutting Tips: If the bars become hard to slice after freezing, let them sit out for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly for easier cutting.
Serving Suggestions: For the ultimate treat, reheat them briefly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, then enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Variations & Substitutions for Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars
Customize your bars with these delightful flavors and textures! Each variation is a new way to elevate your dessert experience.
Nutty Twist: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor profile. These nuts will add their own character while still providing a satisfying crunch.
Choco-Burst: Add dark chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a luscious surprise. It’s an indulgence that blends beautifully with the sweet and nutty elements of the bars.
Maple Lovers: Increase the maple syrup in both the crust and filling for an even richer flavor. This enhances the dessert’s sweetness and keeps the texture moist.
Coconut Delight: Incorporate shredded unsweetened coconut into the filling. This adds chewy texture while harmonizing with the existing flavors for an exotic vibe.
Spiced Elegance: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor that perfectly complements the pecans, especially in cooler months.
Gourmet Salt: Experiment with flavored sea salts, like smoked salt, on top for an unexpected twist that enhances the sweet profile of the bars.
Fruit Fusion: Add a layer of fresh or dried fruit, like cranberries or apricots, into the filling for a delightful tart contrast and added chewiness.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle homemade or store-bought dairy-free caramel sauce over the top before serving for an extra layer of sweetness and decadence.
Explore these variations to create your own signature version of these Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars!
What to Serve with Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars?
Indulge in a delightful dessert experience with the perfect pairings for these naturally sweet bars.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and creamy, it adds a luxurious touch that complements the rich filling beautifully.
- Fresh Berries: Juicy berries provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, balancing each bite with a burst of flavor.
- Almond Milk Latte: The nutty notes in almond milk enhance the bars while a warm latte offers a cozy pairing.
- Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A hint of melted dark chocolate over the bars elevates them to a decadent treat.
- Chai Spiced Coffee: The spices in chai add warmth and complexity, making your dessert experience even more inviting.
- Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle warm vegan caramel over the bars to amplify their sweetness.
- Cinnamon Dusted Apples: Baked apples sprinkled with cinnamon create a warm, comforting side that echoes the flavors of fall.
- Nutty Granola: Adding crunch with a serving of nutty granola offers both texture and added nutrition to your dessert spread.
- Homemade Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate ice cream rounds out this dessert ensemble, providing a delightful temperature contrast.
Expert Tips for Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars
Use Blanched Almond Flour: Opt for finely blanched almond flour for the best texture; avoid alternatives to ensure the crust holds well.
Stir Constantly: While cooking the caramel mixture, stir continuously to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, luscious filling for your Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars.
Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close watch on the bars while baking to avoid overcooking, as the filling can harden quickly if left in too long.
Cool Thoroughly: For easy slicing, let the bars cool completely in the fridge for at least an hour. If they’re difficult to cut, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
Experiment Wisely: Feel free to try variations with different nuts or add-ins, but remember to stick to the core ingredients for the perfect balance!
Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pecans?
Absolutely! Look for fresh pecans that are plump and have a slightly oily sheen. Avoid any nuts that have dark spots or a musty smell, as these can indicate rancidity. Storing them in an airtight container in the fridge can help maintain freshness.
How should I store leftover bars?
Very easy! Simply place the Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze them—just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Can I freeze these bars?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
What if my filling doesn’t set properly?
If your filling is not setting, it may need more time in the oven. I recommend checking every couple of minutes after the 17-minute mark. If the top appears set but still feels soft, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely; they will firm up as they chill in the refrigerator.
Are these bars suitable for someone with nut allergies?
Not ideal. Since these Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars contain nuts, they’re not recommended for anyone with nut allergies. However, feel free to experiment with seed-based alternatives like sunflower seed flour in the crust—just keep an eye on the flavor and texture adjustments needed.
Can I use a different sweetener in place of maple syrup?
You can definitely swap out maple syrup for honey if you’re okay with a non-vegan option. If you’re looking for a low-calorie alternative, agave syrup can also work, but be cautious as it may make the filling slightly thinner.
Irresistibly Indulgent Vegan & Paleo Pecan Pie Bars You'll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch square pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix the almond flour, melted coconut oil, pure maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until crumbly. Press this mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 6-7 minutes until lightly golden.
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine coconut sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the mixture starts bubbling, then fold in the chopped pecans and continue cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour the pecan filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 17-20 minutes until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least one hour before cutting into squares.
- Optional: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving for an extra flavor boost.
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