Let’s dive into pecan pie bars with a healthier spin.
We’re keeping all the rich flavor you love, but with ingredients that pack a nutritional punch. These bars are going to be your new go-to: think a layer of crunchy pecans, a touch of natural sweetness, and a whole lot of yum without the guilt.
So, pull out your food processor, and let’s get started on this simple yet satisfying treat that’s sure to hit the spot.
BONUS: They’re NO BAKE!
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 7×7 or 8×8 square dish with parchment paper.
- Pop the rolled oats, pecans, almond flour, cinnamon, and salt in your food processor. Zap it until you get a fine, crumbly texture. Then, toss in the medjool dates and pulse until the mix is sticky and clumps together. If it’s too dry, add a splash of water and pulse to get a dough that’s ready to shape by hand.
- Transfer the mixture to the square dish and press it evenly across the base.
- Toss the medjool dates, water, vanilla, and a pinch of salt back into that food processor. Hit it with a few pulses until you’ve got a mix that’s smooth and sticky, just like caramel. Don’t forget to scrape down those sides every now and then to get everything perfectly 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 pecan bars!
And there you have it, a tray of golden, delicious pecan pie bars that didn’t require a cheat day or a compromise on taste. Whether you’re nibbling on a square with your morning coffee or serving them up as a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, these bars are sure to impress. Enjoy!
What makes these pecan pie bars healthy?
These bars are made with natural, whole ingredients like rolled oats, pecans, and medjool dates. They’re packed with fiber and healthy fats, and they’re sweetened naturally instead of with refined sugars.
Are these pecan pie bars gluten-free?
They sure are, as long as you make sure that all your ingredients, especially the rolled oats, are certified gluten-free.
How long will these bars keep?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll keep for about a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
