Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
Unveiling the Flavors of Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
When I first tried my hand at vegan baking, one of the standout recipes was definitely these Vegan Pecan Pie Bars. They perfectly capture the sweet, nutty essence of traditional pecan pie but in a fun, portable bar form. This recipe not only caters to those following a vegan lifestyle; it’s also a hit among friends and family who simply adore its rich flavor and deliciously chewy texture. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, looking for a sweet treat for a cozy weekend, or just craving something indulgent yet wholesome, these bars won’t disappoint!
What Makes This Recipe Special
Vegan Pecan Pie Bars are not only delicious; they come together quickly, making them the ideal choice for all occasions. Their simplicity means you don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen, and they boast a delightful flavor profile that appeals to both vegans and non-vegans alike. Plus, they’re budget-friendly; using minimal ingredients while still delivering maximum taste.
“These bars are a total game changer! They taste just like classic pecan pie, but I feel so much better about having a second piece since they’re vegan.” – A satisfied home baker
Step-by-Step Overview of Making Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
Let’s dive into this delightful recipe! The process is straightforward and enjoyable, making it great for novice bakers and seasoned pros. You’ll start by preparing your base, followed by mixing up the pecan topping. Then, it’s simply a matter of baking and letting them cool. Ready to create these luscious bars? Here’s how it’s done!
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to create your Vegan Pecan Pie Bars:
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
Feel free to customize! If almond flour isn’t available, oat flour can be a great alternative. Similarly, substitute agave syrup for maple syrup if you prefer.
Directions to Follow
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt thoroughly.
- Pour in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming your base.
- In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans with the coconut milk. Pour this mixture over the base, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and fragrant.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares for serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
These bars shine on their own, but there are many fun ways to enjoy them! You can serve them warm with a scoop of coconut ice cream, drizzle with extra maple syrup, or even garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect sweet-savory balance. Pair them with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee for an indulgent afternoon treat.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To enjoy your Vegan Pecan Pie Bars for longer, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them beyond that, consider refrigerating them, where they will last up to a week. For even longer storage, these bars freeze beautifully! Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and they’ll be good for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are some practical tips to elevate your baking experience:
- Measure Ingredients Carefully: Baking is often a science, so be precise when measuring your almond flour and coconut sugar.
- Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, make sure your pecans are fresh. Toasting them lightly before adding them will enhance their nutty richness.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool entirely before cutting; this helps achieve cleaner cuts and prevents them from crumbling.
Creative Twists to Try
There are endless possibilities when it comes to personalizing your Vegan Pecan Pie Bars. You could add dark chocolate chips for a rich twist or incorporate spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for warmth. For a fruitier version, try mixing in small pieces of dried cranberries or apples. If you’re aiming for a gluten-free dessert, this recipe is already a perfect match with almond flour!
Your Questions Answered
What is the prep time for this recipe?
The prep time for these Vegan Pecan Pie Bars is approximately 10-15 minutes, which is quite quick compared to other baked goods!
Can I substitute almond flour?
Absolutely! Oat flour or all-purpose gluten-free flour can work well as substitutes if you need an alternative for almond flour.
How do I properly store the bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months. Making sure to keep them sealed will maintain their freshness.
Try out these Vegan Pecan Pie Bars for an oddly satisfying combination of chewy, nutty goodness. Whether you’re enjoying them as a dessert or a snack, they capture the essence of a classic pie in every bite!
Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, coconut sugar, and salt thoroughly.
- Pour in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming your base.
- In a separate bowl, mix the chopped pecans with the coconut milk. Pour this mixture over the base, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and fragrant.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into squares for serving.
