Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines a nutty, chewy crust with a rich, glossy chocolate topping. These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while offering a satisfying crunch in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups pecans
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 3/4 cup pitted and soft Medjool dates
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 cup pecan halves for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a food processor, combine the pecans and rolled oats and pulse until finely ground. Add the pitted dates, peanut butter, and maple syrup, and process until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
2. Step 2: Firmly and evenly press the dough into an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Place the pan in the freezer to chill for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Step 3: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is smooth and glossy.
4. Step 4: Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top. Sprinkle the pecan halves over the chocolate.
5. Step 5: Freeze the assembled bars for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or until the chocolate has completely set. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips & Variations

• For a different nutty flavor, try substituting walnuts or almonds for the pecans.
• If you prefer a sweeter bar, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the crust mixture.
• Use dark chocolate for a richer taste or milk chocolate for a sweeter finish.
• Line your baking dish with parchment paper overhanging the edges to lift the bars out easily after freezing.

Storage

Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, keep them in the freezer for up to one month. Allow frozen bars to thaw in the refrigerator before serving for best texture. Reheat is not recommended as it may affect the chocolate topping.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or any other nuts you prefer. Just keep the quantity the same for the crust.

Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, these bars are gluten-free as they use rolled oats and nuts instead of wheat flour. Just be sure to use certified gluten-free oats if you have a sensitivity.

Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Pin Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 78 reviews

These Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars offer a deliciously rich and chewy crust made from pecans, oats, and dates, topped with a smooth layer of melted chocolate and crunchy pecan halves. Perfectly sweetened with maple syrup and enhanced with creamy peanut butter, these no-bake bars are a wholesome treat ideal for chocolate lovers seeking a healthier dessert option.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 9–12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups pecans
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 3/4 cup pitted and soft Medjool dates
• 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

For the Toppings:

• 1/2 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 1/2 cup pecan halves for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the crust: In a food processor, combine the pecans and rolled oats, processing until finely ground. Add the pitted dates, creamy peanut butter, and maple syrup, then pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Place the pan in the freezer to chill for 10-15 minutes.
2. Prepare the chocolate topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips with the coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth with a glossy finish.
3. Assemble and chill: Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top. Sprinkle the pecan halves on the chocolate layer for garnish. Return the bars to the freezer and chill for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chocolate has fully set. Once set, cut into bars and serve.

Notes

• Ensure the Medjool dates are soft for easier blending; if hard, soak in warm water for 10 minutes before use.
• Use parchment paper to make removing bars from the baking dish easier.
• Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to maintain freshness and firmness.
• For a nut-free version, peanut butter and pecans could be substituted with sunflower seed butter and seeds, but texture and flavor will vary.
• The recipe is naturally gluten free if certified gluten free oats are used.

Keywords: Chocolate pecan pie bars, no-bake dessert, gluten free bars, healthy chocolate bars, pecan bars, vegan dessert, date sweetened bars