Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Introduction
These Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious no-bake treat perfect for Thanksgiving or any time you crave a sweet, nutty dessert. Made with dates and nut butter, they offer a sticky, caramel-like filling topped with rich chocolate and crunchy pecans.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pecans (for crust)
- 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
- Step 1: In a food processor, combine the pecans and rolled oats and pulse until finely ground.
- Step 2: Add the pitted dates, peanut butter, and maple syrup to the processor and blend until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
- Step 3: Press the dough firmly and evenly into an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Step 4: Place the pan in the freezer and chill for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Step 5: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Step 6: Remove the crust from the freezer. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top and sprinkle with pecan halves.
- Step 7: Freeze the bars for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or until the chocolate has fully set. Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Variations
- For a nut-free version, substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and use pumpkin seeds instead of pecans.
- Use dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet topping.
- If you prefer a softer bar, allow them to thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets to enhance the flavors.
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. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few minutes until soft enough to cut.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans for a different flavor and texture.
Do I need a food processor to make these bars?
A food processor is ideal for finely grinding the nuts and oats and blending the ingredients evenly. If you don’t have one, a strong blender or chopping the nuts and oats finely by hand could work, but it may take more time and effort.
PrintChocolate Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
These no-bake Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars combine a naturally sweet, sticky crust made from dates, pecans, oats, and peanut butter with a glossy chocolate topping and crunchy pecan halves. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion, they offer a delicious caramel-like flavor without any baking required.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 9–16 bars depending on cut size 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
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
- Make the crust: In a food processor, combine the pecans and rolled oats and pulse until finely ground. Add the pitted dates, creamy peanut butter, and maple syrup, then process until the mixture forms a sticky, cohesive dough. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper. Place the dish in the freezer to chill for 10-15 minutes to set.
- Prepare the topping: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each, until the mixture is completely melted, smooth, and glossy.
- Assemble and chill: Remove the chilled crust from the freezer. Pour the melted chocolate evenly over the crust and sprinkle the pecan halves on top for garnish. Return the bars to the freezer and chill for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the chocolate topping is fully set. Once firm, cut into bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the dates are soft and fresh for easier blending and a sticky crust.
- For a nut-free option, substitute pecans and peanut butter with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds and a seed butter.
- Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor and to reduce sugar content.
- Keep bars refrigerated or frozen until serving to maintain texture and freshness.
- If you prefer a sweeter crust, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a bit more maple syrup.
Keywords: Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars, No-Bake Dessert, Thanksgiving Dessert, Healthy Dessert Bars, Date Bars, Nut Butter Bars
