If you’re a fan of pecan pie but want to enjoy this classic dessert without dairy or gluten, you’re in for a treat! These Vegan and Gluten-Free Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the traditional recipe.

a stack of four pecan pie bars on a marble board

Last year for a Fall holiday recipe I made some Pumpkin Pie bars. This year I wanted to turn another Fall-favourite pie into a bar and make these incredible Vegan Pecan Pie Bars.

The base of these bars is made with almond flour, which makes this recipe completely grain-free and high in protein. The almond flour crust also gives the recipe an even more nutty and rich taste.

The topping of these bars is very similar to the filling of a pecan pie. The filling is loaded with pecan of course, that gets tossed up in melted coconut sugar and coconut oil. This turns the plain ol’ pecans into candied pecans, that taste almost like a salted caramel praline. Seriously delicious!

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Irresistible Flavour: These vegan and gluten-free pecan pie bars are the perfect combination of sweet, nutty, and a touch of salty flavours. The caramel-like pecan filling, combined with the nutty almond flour crust, will leave anyone craving that next delicious bite!
  • Suitable for different diets: These bars are an inclusive dessert option that caters to a variety of dietary preferences and restrictions. They’re not only vegan and gluten-free but also grain-free, making them a great treat for individuals with dietary restrictions.
  • Easy to make: While a pecan pie can be a bit daunting to make, this recipe is straightforward and hassle-free! The minimal number of ingredients and simple steps make this an easy recipe for anyone to try.

Vegan Pecan Pie Bar ingredients and substitutions

This recipe uses a total of eight ingredients, which makes it a simple and healthy recipe to make. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Almond Flour: Almond flour, with its finely ground texture, creates a nutty, gluten-free crust that’s both delicate and robust. You can substitute almond flour with oat flour if you prefer.
  • Cornstarch: Cornstarch also sometimes called cornflour is used to add a soft texture to the crust. You can also use tapioca flour.
  • Coconut Oil: Melted coconut oil helps to bind everything together in both the crust and filling. For a non-vegan version, you can use butter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract infuses the dessert with a warm and inviting aroma, enhancing the overall flavour profile.
  • Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup provides a natural, rich sweetness that also helps to bind the dough for the crust.
  • Coconut Sugar: Coconut sugar, a healthier alternative to traditional sugar, adds a gentle sweetness that harmonizes with the other ingredients. You can substitute with brown sugar if needed.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavours in the recipe, balancing the sweetness and adding depth to the taste.
  • Pecans: Pecans, the star of the show, deliver a delightful crunch and a distinct, buttery flavour, making these bars truly irresistible.
8x8 inch pan

Our Favorite 8×8-inch pan

This 8×8-inch pan is durable and is a must-have for baking!

Buy Now

*Full recipe measurements and instructions are below in the recipe card.

How to make gluten-free pecan pie bars

Step 1

Start by preparing the almond flour crust. Mix the almond flour, cornstarch, coconut oil, salt, maple syrup and vanilla extract in a bowl until well combined. Then press the mixture down into an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper.

  • almond flour and cornstarch in a clear mixing bowl
  • almond flour dough in a mixing bowl
  • almond flour crust unbaked in an 8x8 inch pan
  • baked almond flour crust in an 8x8 inch pan

Step 2

To make this filling, melt the coconut oil, coconut sugar salt and vanilla in a small pot. Bring the mixture to a boil for one minute, stirring constantly then turn the heat to low and add the chopped pecans. Pour and spread the mixture on top of the almond cookie crust. Bake the bars in the oven at 350 degrees F for 25-35 minutes. Let cool completely before cutting into the bars.

  • coconut sugar and coconut oil in a pot
  • pecans and melted sugar and oil in a pot
  • unbaked pecan pie bars
  • pecan pie bars in an 8x8 inch pan

How to store

Store these pecan pie bars in a sealed container on the countertop for up to a week. These bars also freeze well and can be stored in the freezer in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To defrost the bars simply let them thaw on the countertop.

Tips for making pecan pie bars

  • Keep an eye on the filling when cooking: The pecan pie filling can burn easily when cooking, so make sure to keep stirring it and keep a close watch on it.
  • Pre-Bake the Crust: Pre-baking the almond flour crust is essential. It sets the foundation for your bars and prevents them from becoming overly soggy when the filling is added. Ensure the crust is lightly golden before proceeding.
  • Allow for Proper Cooling: After baking, give your vegan and gluten-free pecan pie bars adequate time to cool. This not only allows them to set but also enhances the flavour. Cutting into them too soon can result in a messy, crumbly texture.

Vegan Pecan Pie Bars FAQ

Can you freeze pecan pie bars?

Yes! Pecan pie bars freeze very well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute pecans with?

If you can’t find pecans to make this recipe you can make these bars with walnuts instead.

pecan pie bars cut up on a marble board

More pecan recipes to try

More bar recipes to try

If you tried this Vegan Pecan Pie Bars or any other recipe on the blog let me know how you liked it by leaving a comment/rating below! Be sure to follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, Tiktok and Facebook for even more deliciousness!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
pecan pie bars cut up on a marble board

Vegan Pecan Pie Bars

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 1 review
  • Author: Jessica Hoffman
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 15 bars 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan
Print Recipe

Description

These Vegan Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious and healthy treat which are also completely gluten-free and grain-free!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Almond cookie crust 

Pecan pie topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and line an 8×8 pan with parchment paper.
  2. Mix the almond flour, cornstarch, salt, coconut oil, maple syrup and vanilla extract together in a bowl.
  3. Press the crust mixture evenly into an 8×8 pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the pecan filling.
  4. To make the topping, add the coconut oil, coconut sugar, salt and vanilla together in a pot and melt on medium heat. Bring the mixture to a slight boil for 30 seconds, mixing constantly to prevent it from burning.
  5. Turn off the heat and add the pecans. Mix until evenly coated.
  6. Pour the mixture on top of the almond cookie crust, spreading evenly. 
  7. Bake the bars at 350 degrees F for 20-30 minutes. 
  8. Let cool completely before cutting. 

Notes

Keep an eye on the pecan pie topping mixture, and stir it a lot to prevent it from burning. 

Store on the counter for a week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 248
  • Sugar: 12.5g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fiber: 12g
  • Protein: 3g