Maple Pecan Pie Bars (GF & DF)

Considering Thanksgiving isn’t Thanksgiving without some pie, in my opinion, pecan pie is the only way to go.

Instead of making the usual pie, I thought it would be fun to make it into easy-to-eat bars. And, the biggest bonus of them all is that they are much healthier than you would think.

The crust is buttery, and includes a rich, ooey gooey, brown butter, maple center. I then top the filling with pecans and flaky sea salt.

How to Make Healthier Maple Pecan Pie Bars:

Traditionally, pecan pie/bars are made with lots of butter, refined sugar and corn syrup. I, however; specifically want these pecan pie bars to be a little lighter and have “better for you” ingredients in them. These bars are:

• Gluten-free, due to the oat flour cookie crust.
• Dairy-free, thanks to the delicious vegan butter.
• Made with unrefined sugar like maple syrup. No corn syrup here!
• Packed with protein, healthy fats and fiber, thanks to the oat flour and pecans.

Tips For the Best Bars:

• Use pure maple syrup.
• You will need a candy thermometer to make the filling.
• Room temperature eggs are a must.
• The recipe calls for bourbon. However, because I didn’t have any I used dark rum. Both work!
• Use an 8-in square pan lined with parchment paper, which will ensure even baking and no sticking.
• Fresh out of the oven, brush the pecans with maple syrup and sprinkle with flaky salt.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. These bars are also freezer-friendly up to 3 months. (Either method: just warm them briefly, or let them thaw before enjoying).
• NOTE: This recipe is slightly adapted from Laura over at Tutti Dolci. Click here to see her recipe.

For more holiday recipes, please give these a try:

• Herb-Roasted Boneless Leg of Lamb
• Hearty Autumn-Harvest Salad with Apples
• Delicious Mashed Sweet Potatoes
• Empress Pear-Rosemary Gin Cocktail

FOLLOW ALONG! Subscribe to my newsletter and follow along on Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram for the latest updates, recipes and content.

NOTE:

• My White Textured Stoneware and Glass Carafe are available at World Market.
• This Better Homes & Gardens Rectangle Tray is available at Walmart and is an in-store purchase only.

* Did you make this recipe? Tag @alifedelicious on Instagram and hashtag it

* Love this recipe? Be sure to save it to Pinterest by clicking the pin it button on a photo, or the share button at the bottom of the post.