Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars

If you’re in search of a delightful dessert that caters to vegan diets without compromising on flavor, look no further than these Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars. Bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon and the crunch of pecans, these bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a potluck dessert. This article will guide you through the recipe and provide tips to make your bars even more enjoyable.

Why You’ll Love These Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars

1. Deliciously Nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients, these bars are not only delicious but also provide a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein from the pecans and oats.
2. Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners. You can whip up a batch in no time!
3. Versatile: Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast treat! They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea.
4. Customizable: Feel free to experiment with additional mix-ins such as chocolate chips, dried fruits, or other nuts to make them your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these scrumptious Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup almond flour (or any nut flour)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Optional: 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, chopped pecans, almond flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir until the mixture is well combined and resembles a crumbly dough.

Step 3: Form the Base Layer

Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Make sure it is evenly spread out and compacted to create a solid base for your bars.

Step 4: Make the Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, maple syrup, and ground cinnamon. If you’re using raisins or dried cranberries, add them to the mixture as well.

Step 5: Add the Filling

Spread the pecan filling evenly over the base layer, pressing it down gently to ensure it sticks.

Step 6: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper and slice them into squares or rectangles.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed plain, drizzled with a little extra maple syrup, or topped with your favorite vegan ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just ensure they’re wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

These Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars are a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy, whether they follow a vegan diet or not. With their nutty flavor and chewy texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients and indulge in these delicious bars today!

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By incorporating these tips and following this simple recipe, you’ll create a delicious dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also keeps your diet plant-based. Share your creations on social media and let others in on the joy of baking with this vegan delight!

Here are some detailed Serving and Storage Tips for your Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars:

Serving Tips

1. Presentation: Cut the bars into squares or rectangles and arrange them on a decorative plate for a beautiful presentation. You can sprinkle some extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top for an appealing touch.
2. Pairing Options:

• Beverages: Serve your bars with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of almond milk. The flavors complement each other beautifully.
• Toppings: For an extra indulgent treat, consider serving the bars warm with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of vegan whipped cream or yogurt on top.
• Ice Cream: They also pair wonderfully with vegan ice cream. A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon-flavored ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the chewy bars.

1. Occasions: These bars are perfect for various occasions:

• Dessert: Serve them at dinner parties or family gatherings as a delightful dessert option.
• Snacks: Enjoy them as a nutritious snack during the day, especially after workouts or as a midday pick-me-up.
• Brunch: Include them in a brunch spread alongside fruits, muffins, and coffee for a satisfying meal.

Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them chewy and fresh.
2. Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can keep the bars in the refrigerator. They will last for about a week when stored in an airtight container. Chilling them may slightly alter the texture, making them firmer, but they’ll still be delicious!
3. Freezing:

• Preparation: If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing the bars. Cut them into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Storage: Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To enjoy, simply remove a bar from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds.

1. Avoiding Sogginess: Ensure that the bars are completely cooled before storing them, as storing them while still warm can lead to moisture buildup, making them soggy.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars fresh and delicious for days to come!

1. Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?

Yes! While pecans add a delicious flavor and texture, you can easily substitute them with other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews. Just ensure that the nuts you choose complement the overall flavor of the bars. You can also omit nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free version.

2. What can I use instead of maple syrup?

If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, you can use agave nectar, brown rice syrup, or date syrup as alternatives. Keep in mind that each sweetener has a slightly different flavor, so the taste of the bars may vary slightly based on your choice. You could also try using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar, but you might need to adjust the liquid ingredients in the recipe.

3. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out mostly clean, with a few crumbs attached. Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

4. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars can be made ahead of time. You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container. They also freeze well, so you can make a larger batch and freeze portions for later enjoyment. Just remember to allow them to cool completely before storing or freezing.

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