Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings the warm, nutty flavors of pecan pie into a convenient bar form, you’ve come to the right place! These Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars are not only scrumptious but also made with wholesome ingredients that make them a guilt-free treat. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something sweet after dinner, or for family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a slice (or two!).
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just six main ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be able to whip up these bars in no time. Plus, they’re gluten-free and free from dairy, making them suitable for many dietary preferences. Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make: With simple steps and just six ingredients, anyone can bake these bars with confidence.
- Family-friendly: The sweet and crunchy pecan filling is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Make-ahead option: These bars store well in the fridge, making them ideal for meal prep or last-minute snacks.
- Wholesome ingredients: Made with almond flour and natural sweeteners, you can feel good about indulging.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of buttery almond crust and sweet pecan filling creates a blissful treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients will be a breeze! You won’t need anything fancy—just some simple, wholesome staples that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create these delicious Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars.
For the Crust
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional, but recommended)
- 2 eggs (at room temperature—very important!)
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (raw and unsalted)
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures based on what you have on hand or what your taste buds are craving.
- Add chocolate chips: Toss in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
- Make it spiced: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice twist.
- Top with fruit: Serve these bars with fresh berries or sliced bananas for added freshness.
How to Make Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350° Fahrenheit. This step is crucial because it ensures an even bake when we put our crust in. While that’s heating up, go ahead and prepare your baking pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will make it much easier to remove the bars once they’re baked!
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, combine all the shortbread crust ingredients: almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix everything until well combined. Once mixed, press this dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Bake the crust for about 10 minutes or until it turns lightly golden brown around the edges. This step creates a sturdy base that will hold all that yummy filling!
Step 3: Make the Filling
While your crust is baking away, let’s whip up that delicious pecan filling! In another bowl, whisk together the coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract (if using), and room temperature eggs until everything is nicely blended. Then fold in those chopped pecans; they will add that lovely crunch we all adore.
Step 4: Bake Again
Once your crust has finished baking and cooled slightly, pour that luscious pecan filling over it. Spread it evenly so every bite gets filled with goodness! Bake this beauty again for 20-25 minutes until the filling is set. It’s always exciting to see how quickly things come together at this stage!
Step 5: Cool and Chill
After removing from the oven, allow your bars to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes—this helps them firm up nicely. Then transfer them to the fridge to chill for about an hour before cutting into squares. Chilling enhances their texture and makes them easier to slice! Enjoy these delightful Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars whenever you need a tasty treat!
Pro Tips for Making Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars
Making these delicious bars can be a breeze with a few helpful tips! Here are some pro tips to enhance your baking experience:
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Use Room Temperature Eggs: This is crucial for achieving the right texture in your filling. Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly, leading to a better consistency.
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Don’t Overmix the Crust: Mixing just until combined will keep your crust tender and flaky. Overmixing can lead to tough bars, so be gentle!
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Chill Before Cutting: Allowing the bars to chill in the fridge before cutting helps them set and makes slicing easier. This way, you’ll get nice clean edges for those perfect squares.
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Experiment with Sweeteners: Feel free to swap out maple syrup or coconut sugar for other natural sweeteners like agave syrup or honey if you’re looking for alternative flavors.
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Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them moist and delicious for up to a week!
How to Serve Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars
These pecan pie bars are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some fun ideas on how to present this sweet treat:
Garnishes
- Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy contrast that complements the richness of the bars.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling additional chopped pecans on top adds extra crunch and enhances the nutty flavor profile of the dessert.
Side Dishes
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the sweetness of the pecan pie bars.
- Vanilla Coconut Yogurt: A scoop of creamy yogurt adds a tangy element that balances out the sweetness. You might even consider drizzling some maple syrup on top!
- Chia Seed Pudding: This healthy pudding makes a great side dish that’s rich in fiber and adds a unique texture alongside your bars.
- Herbal Tea: Pairing these dessert bars with a warm cup of herbal tea creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Enjoy making and serving these delightful Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars! They’re sure to become a favorite at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
These Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and have a delicious treat ready to enjoy throughout the week.
Storing Leftovers
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
- For best results, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing
- Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- For a warm treat, you can reheat individual bars in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
- Alternatively, warm them in a preheated oven at 350° Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes.
FAQs
Have questions? Here are some common inquiries about these delightful Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars!
Can I make Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars without eggs?
Yes! You can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg). Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it thickens.
How do I know when my Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center. You can also check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans give these bars their signature flavor, feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
How do I achieve a crust that’s not crumbly?
Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into your baking pan. Using enough melted coconut oil will also help bind everything together for a sturdier crust.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making these Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars! They blend all the classic flavors we love into an easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you share them with loved ones or keep them all to yourself (no judgment here!), I’m sure they’ll bring warmth and happiness. Happy baking!
Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Healthy Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars, a delightful twist on the classic dessert. These bars feature a buttery almond crust topped with a rich pecan filling, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour and natural sweeteners, these bars are gluten-free and dairy-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy this guilt-free indulgence. Ideal for busy weeknights or family gatherings, they store well in the fridge for quick snacks throughout the week. Try these bars today and elevate your dessert game!
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (optional)
- 2 eggs (room temperature)
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix almond flour, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until combined. Press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 10 minutes.
- In another bowl, whisk together coconut sugar, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract (if using), and room temperature eggs. Fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour filling over the crust and bake for 20-25 minutes until set.
- Cool for 30 minutes in the pan before transferring to the fridge to chill for an hour before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (45g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
