Oh boy, have I got a treat for you! Vegan Pecan Pie Bars are one of those delightful desserts that will make your taste buds dance, even if you’re not vegan! I remember the first time I made them; it was Thanksgiving, and I wanted to bring something special to the table that everyone could enjoy. As I pulled these sweet, nutty bars from the oven, the aroma spread through my kitchen like a cozy hug. They were a hit, and I think I even converted a few skeptics who claimed they’d never enjoy vegan desserts.
What I love about these Vegan Pecan Pie Bars is how they perfectly combine a delicious shortbread crust with a rich, caramel-like filling and crunchy pecans on top. It’s like a portable version of pecan pie that you can eat with your fingers, which is honestly the best kind of pie in my book. Whether it’s for the holidays, a picnic, or simply because you’re in the mood for something sweet, these bars are unique, tasty, and oh-so-satisfying!
What’s in Vegan Pecan Pie Bars?
Let me walk you through the ingredients that make these bars so magical!
Dates: The star of the show! Dates add natural sweetness and a delightful chewiness to the filling, making them key in achieving that gooey pecan pie goodness. Medjool dates are my preference because they’re softer and sweeter.
Pecans: Of course, we can’t forget the pecans! They bring a rich, buttery flavor and crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the filling. You can toast them slightly before adding for an extra depth of flavor.
Maple Syrup: This liquid gold helps sweeten the filling while giving it that quintessential pecan pie taste. It’s also a plant-based sweetener, which makes it perfect for our vegan dessert!
Nut Butter: I usually go with almond or cashew butter. It adds creaminess to the filling and helps bind everything together without using eggs.
Oats: Rolled oats create the crust while making these bars more filling. They also add a lovely texture that complements the softness of the filling.
Coconut Oil: A necessary ingredient for the crust, it keeps everything crunchy yet tender and adds a hint of richness.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla ties all the flavors together, giving it that homey, comforting aroma that will make everyone feel like they’re getting a warm hug.
Is Vegan Pecan Pie Bars Good for You?
Absolutely! While treats are meant to be enjoyed in moderation, these Vegan Pecan Pie Bars have some solid health benefits.
Dates: Being high in fiber and natural sugars, they’re a fantastic energy source. Plus, they contain antioxidants and vitamins that are beneficial for your digestive health.
Pecans: These nuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and magnesium which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. They are also heart-healthy and can contribute to better cholesterol levels.
Oats: Everyone loves oats! They’re a great source of fiber and can help you feel fuller for longer, keeping those snack cravings at bay.
Just a little caution: while they’re healthier than traditional pecan pie, they still have a fair amount of sugar and fat due to the maple syrup and nut butter, so it’s best to enjoy them as an occasional treat.
Ingredients for Vegan Pecan Pie Bars:
– 1 cup Medjool dates, pitted
– 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped (plus extra for topping)
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup almond or cashew nut butter
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– A pinch of salt
*Serves: 12 bars*
How to Make Vegan Pecan Pie Bars?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
2. In a food processor, add the oats, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Pulse until everything is combined and crumbly.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form the crust.
4. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
5. In the same food processor, combine the pitted dates, maple syrup, nut butter, vanilla extract, and half of the pecans. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
6. Pour this filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out to the edges. Sprinkle the remaining pecans on top.
7. Bake again for 20-25 minutes, until the top is bubbly and slightly set.
8. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out and cutting into squares. I recommend chilling them in the refrigerator for a bit if you want them to firm up even more!
Sweet Tips for Pecan Pie Bars
– You can easily customize these by adding chocolate chips or drizzling some melted chocolate on top for an indulgent twist.
– If you like a spicier touch, consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for that warm holiday flavor.
– These bars store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week – if you can resist eating them all, that is!
I hope you’re as excited to make these Vegan Pecan Pie Bars as I am! They’re not only a delicious treat but also a fantastic way to share the love of plant-based goodness with friends and family. Give it a try, and I can’t wait to hear how they turned out! Happy baking!