Published 11/19/2018 • Updated 10/18/2023 I like pecan pie more than pumpkin pie! There, I said it. The crunchy texture combined with the comforting flavors of pecan pie is like a giant hug that can’t be beat. While we don’t have many pie recipes on Fit Foodie, we do love bars. These pecan pie bars are everything we love about classic pecan pie with a wholesome twist, are refined sugar and flour-free, and come together in under an hour. Simply make the almond flour crust, puree dates to make date caramel, assemble, and bake. And, if you’re looking for a pumpkin pie version, our pumpkin pie bars are for you and the same with apple pie bars, too!
What is in pecan pie bars?
There are 2 parts to these flourless pecan pie bars. Here’s what you need:
Crust
The crust for these pie bars comes together with almond flour, butter, maple syrup, and vanilla. The blanched almond flour creates a warm, nutty, aromatic crust that pairs wonderfully with the sweet, cozy pecan pie filling.
Filling
The star of these pecan pie bars is the date caramel which adds the same great pecan pie texture we love without added sugar and preservatives. These are real, whole food pie bars with a simple ingredient list. We use pureed dates as a natural sweetener combined with vanilla for flavor and chopped pecans, of course. A sprinkle of sea salt creates a truly incredible sweet, salty treat!
Substitutions for Pecan Pie Bars
With an already short ingredient list, there aren’t too many swaps for these pecan pie bars. Here are a couple to try based on what ingredients you have on hand:
Flour: If you don’t have almond flour, use the same amount of all-purpose or white whole wheat flour. The bars won’t be flourless, of course, but will still taste great. Maple Syrup: Replace the maple syrup with the same amount of honey. We love how the maple flavor pairs with the sweet dates, but honey works in a pinch. Nuts: Mix it up and use raw walnuts instead of pecans.
Storage
Pecan pie bars are a great make-ahead Thanksgiving dessert recipe! Once completely cool, enjoy them immediately or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to a week.
Dessert Bars
Apple Pie Bars Healthy Pumpkin Pie Bars Coconut Key Lime Pie Bars Coconut Cream Pie Bars Frozen Margarita Pie Bars
Freezing Pecan Pie Bars
Like many of our other bars and brownies, you can easily freeze these pecan pie bars to enjoy later. Once fully cooled, cut the pan of bars into squares, place in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze until fully frozen. Remove the bars from the freezer, wrap individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and place into freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, transfer frozen bars to the refrigerator to thaw, then enjoy cold or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade pecan pie bars are delicious year-round, but especially during the holiday season! Make a batch to share with friends and neighbors, or add these to your Thanksgiving menu. Serve these naturally gluten free pie bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzle of caramel sauce, or dollop of whipped cream.
