As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I absolutely adore these Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars. They’re not just a treat; they’re a delightful solution for those hectic days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine the rich, nutty flavor of pecans mingling with a sweet, gooey filling, all while being completely vegan! Trust me, these bars will have everyone asking for seconds, and you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar.
Why You’ll Love This Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
These Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars are a dream come true for anyone craving a quick and delicious dessert. They come together in just 45 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of sweet maple syrup and crunchy pecans creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, they’re vegan, so everyone can enjoy them without a second thought!
Ingredients for Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pecans: Chopped pecans add that signature crunch and nutty flavor. You can toast them for an extra depth of flavor.
- Almond Flour: This gluten-free flour gives the crust a lovely texture. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute it with oat flour.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that brings a rich sweetness to the filling. Honey can be used if you’re not strictly vegan.
- Coconut Oil: Melted coconut oil binds the crust together and adds a subtle tropical flavor. You can swap it with vegan butter if preferred.
- Brown Sugar: This adds a caramel-like sweetness. Feel free to use coconut sugar for a healthier option.
- Almond Milk: A creamy base for the filling. Any plant-based milk will work, like soy or oat milk.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor. Always opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
- Salt: Just a pinch balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Cinnamon: This warm spice adds a cozy touch to the filling. You can also experiment with nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part: making these Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. You want that perfect golden top, right? So, let your oven warm up while you prepare the crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine your almond flour, melted coconut oil, and brown sugar. Mix them until they form a crumbly dough. This crust is the foundation of your Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars, so make sure it’s well combined. It should hold together when pressed.
Step 3: Press the Mixture
Next, take that mixture and press it firmly into the bottom of a lined baking dish. Use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to create an even layer. This crust will hold all that gooey goodness, so make it nice and compact!
Step 4: Mix the Filling
In another bowl, mix together the maple syrup, almond milk, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk until everything is well combined. This sweet mixture is what makes these bars so indulgent and delicious!
Step 5: Add Pecans
Now, it’s time to add the chopped pecans to your wet mixture. Stir them in gently, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. These pecans will add that delightful crunch to your Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars.
Step 6: Combine and Pour
Pour the pecan mixture over the crust in your baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. This is where the magic happens, as the filling will soak into the crust while baking, creating that gooey texture we all love.
Step 7: Bake
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely. This step is essential! If you slice them too soon, they might fall apart. Once cooled, cut into bars and enjoy your Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars!
Tips for Success
- Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing to maintain their shape.
- For extra flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the filling.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the bars for clean edges.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Dish: A 9×9 inch square dish works perfectly. You can also use a larger dish for thinner bars.
- Mixing Bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do. Use one for the crust and another for the filling.
- Whisk: A whisk is great for mixing. A fork can work in a pinch!
- Spatula: A rubber spatula helps spread the filling evenly.
Variations of Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark vegan chocolate over the cooled bars for a decadent twist.
- Nut-Free Option: Substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Fruit Additions: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity burst in every bite.
- Gluten-Free Crust: Use a blend of gluten-free flours like oat and coconut flour for a gluten-free crust.
Serving Suggestions for Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
- Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Pair with a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup for added flair.
- Top with fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs about Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars
As you embark on your journey to make these Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries that can help you along the way:
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just use gluten-free almond flour or a blend of gluten-free flours for the crust. Your Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars will still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week, making them a perfect grab-and-go treat!
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to three months.
What can I substitute for maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, agave nectar or brown rice syrup can work as great alternatives in your Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars.
Can I add chocolate to the filling?
Definitely! Adding vegan chocolate chips to the filling will give your bars a delightful chocolatey twist. Just fold them in with the pecans!
Final Thoughts
Making these Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories in the kitchen. The joy of pulling a warm batch from the oven, the aroma wafting through your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they take that first bite—it’s priceless. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself after a long day, these bars are sure to bring happiness. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of these gooey delights brighten your day!
Print
Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars: Indulge in This Delight!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Gooey Vegan Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecans with a sweet, gooey filling, all in a vegan-friendly recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of pecans, chopped
- 1 cup of almond flour
- 1/2 cup of maple syrup
- 1/4 cup of coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of almond milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, melted coconut oil, and brown sugar to form the crust.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a lined baking dish.
- In another bowl, mix maple syrup, almond milk, vanilla extract, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add chopped pecans to the wet mixture and stir well.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the crust in the baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and the top is golden.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- For a richer flavor, toast the pecans before adding them to the filling.
- These bars can be served warm or chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Vegan Pecan Pie Bars, Gooey Dessert, Vegan Dessert Recipe