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Let’s be real—holidays can be a double-edged sword when it comes to eating. On one hand, who doesn’t love indulging in all those classic treats? But, on the other hand, sticking to a healthy or gluten-free diet can make this season a bit of a challenge.
That’s where our Southern-inspired, healthy, and gluten-free pecan pie bars come in.
Yep, we’ve taken the rich, nutty goodness of a traditional pecan pie and turned it into easy-to-eat bars that won’t derail your wellness goals.
Not only do these pecan pie bars taste like a dream, but they’re also super easy to whip up.
Whether you’re new to holiday cooking or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how these fit right in with your other easy dessert and holiday cookie recipes.
No Bake Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
CRUST
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup pecans
- ½ cup blanched almond flour
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- 7-8 large medjool dates pitted
- 1-2 tablespoon water only as needed
SALTED CARAMEL
- 20 large medjool dates pitted
- ¼ cup water
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
TOPPINGS
- 1 cup crushed pecans
Instructions
- Line a 7x7 or 8x8 square dish with parchment paper.
- In a food processor, combine rolled oats, pecans, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt. Pulse until the mixture forms a crumbled, flour-like texture. Add medjool dates and pulse again until a sticky, crumbled mixture is formed. If needed, add water and pulse again until the dough comes together and can be easily shaped with your hands.
- Transfer the mixture to the square dish and press it evenly across the base.
- In the same food processor, combine medjool dates, water, vanilla, and salt. Pulse until the mixture becomes a caramel-like consistency. Scrape down the sides of the processor between pulses until smooth.
- Spread the caramel over the crust in an even layer. Sprinkle crushed pecans on top and gently press them into the caramel.
- Place the dish in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before slicing into bars. Enjoy your delicious salted caramel pecan bars!
These healthy, gluten-free pecan pie bars are the ultimate win-win this holiday season.
They’re Southern-inspired, packed with that nutty goodness we all crave, and best of all, they’re easy to make.
Add them to your list of easy desserts and holiday cookie recipes. Whether you’re hosting a festive get-together or just treating yourself, these bars are a game-changer. Happy baking, y’all!
FAQs
Ah, the secret’s in the filling! We’ve kept all those classic Southern flavors you love but in a more health-conscious package. So you get that nutty, caramelly goodness without the extra guilt.
Good question! Store ’em in an airtight container, and they should be good for up to a week. But let’s be honest—they’ll probably be gone way before then!
Absolutely! Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then put them in a ziplock bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw and enjoy when you’re ready.
