Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe

Irresistibly Sweet Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe

Crafting these delectable vegan cinnamon pecan bars transforms ordinary afternoons into moments of pure bliss.

Sweet aromas waft through your kitchen, promising a treat that dances between nutty and warm.

Pecans bring a rich, earthy crunch that perfectly complements the soft, spiced layers.

Each bite tells a story of comfort and indulgence without any animal products.

Baking becomes an adventure of plant-based creativity with this simple yet sophisticated recipe.

Minimal ingredients come together to create something truly magical and satisfying.

You’ll want to savor every morsel of these irresistible bars that feel like a warm hug.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars

  • Swap Flax Eggs Wisely: Use chia seeds as an alternative binding agent if you're out of flax meal, maintaining the same 1:3 ratio of seeds to water.
  • Perfect Nutty Texture: Lightly toast pecans before chopping to enhance their flavor and create a deeper, more complex taste profile in the bars.
  • Moisture Management: Allow bars to cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting and ensure a clean, smooth frosting application.
  • Customize Sweetness Level: Adjust maple syrup quantity based on personal preference, keeping in mind that reducing it might slightly alter the bars' texture and moisture.
  • Storage Smart: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container with parchment between layers to maintain freshness for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Store and Reheat Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars the Right Way

  • Place bars in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Keep chilled for up to 5 days.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container. Frozen bars maintain quality for 2-3 months.
  • Remove bars from freezer and let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying. Alternatively, warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
  • Warm slightly in the microwave or toaster oven at low heat to preserve texture and prevent drying out. Consume within 5-7 days for best taste and quality.

Pairing Ideas for Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars

  • Brew a creamy chai latte or spiced golden milk to complement the cinnamon notes and enhance the nutty pecan flavors.
  • Sip a sweet late-harvest Riesling or moscato, which will beautifully balance the dessert's richness and highlight its warm spices.
  • Choose a robust rooibos or chamomile tea to provide a smooth, earthy counterpoint to the sweet and nutty cinnamon bars.
  • Pour an almond milk smoothie with hints of vanilla or a cold brew coffee to create a delightful contrast against the warm, spiced dessert.

Unique Twists on Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars

  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace almond flour and coconut flour with a certified gluten-free blend or a mix of rice flour and tapioca starch for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Nut-Free Adaptation: Swap pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds, and use sunflower seed butter instead of cashew butter to accommodate nut allergies.
  • Low-Sugar Version: Substitute maple syrup with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining the sweet cinnamon flavor profile.
  • Protein-Packed Variation: Add a scoop of vegan protein powder to the dry ingredients and reduce flour slightly to boost nutritional value and create a more substantial snack bar.

Why Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Are a Must-Try Treat

  • Prepare this recipe with just basic mixing and baking steps, perfect for home bakers of all skill levels.
  • Combine nutritious ingredients like almond flour, pecans, and maple syrup for a guilt-free dessert that doesn't compromise on taste.
  • Ideal for potlucks, afternoon tea, or a sweet weekend indulgence that caters to vegan dietary preferences.

Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Ingredient Breakdown

Base Ingredients:
  • Flax Meal, Water: Creates egg-like binding for vegan baking, helps hold ingredients together.
  • Almond Flour, Coconut Flour: Gluten-free alternative to wheat flour, provides soft texture and nutty flavor.
  • Cinnamon: Warm spice that adds depth and classic sweet flavor.
Binders and Sweeteners:
  • Coconut Oil: Provides moisture and rich texture, choose organic and unrefined.
  • Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener with complex flavor, pure grade recommended.
  • Cashew Butter: Creamy base that adds richness and protein.
  • Almond Milk: Adds liquid and moisture, unsweetened varieties work best.
Texture and Topping Ingredients:
  • Pecans: Adds crunch and nutty flavor, raw or lightly toasted preferred.
  • Baking Soda: Helps bars rise and creates light texture.
  • Vegan Cream Cheese: Smooth frosting base, choose soft spreadable variety.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.

How to Bake Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Create Flax Mixture

Grab a small bowl and combine flax meal with water. Stir thoroughly and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it transforms into a thick, gel-like consistency.

Step 2: Whip Up Wet Ingredients

In a spacious mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together:
  • Coconut oil
  • Cashew butter
  • Maple syrup
  • Almond milk
  • Prepared flax mixture

Blend until the ingredients create a smooth, uniform liquid.

Step 3: Assemble Dry Components

In a separate bowl, blend:
  • Almond flour
  • Coconut flour
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Baking soda

Gently incorporate these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until completely combined. Tenderly fold in chopped pecans.

Step 4: Bake with Care

Warm the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center- it should emerge clean.

Step 5: Whisk Creamy Frosting

In a small bowl, blend:
  • Vegan cream cheese
  • Coconut oil
  • Maple syrup

Mix until the frosting reaches a silky smooth texture.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the bars have completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly across the top. Slice into squares and savor. Keep any remaining bars chilled in the refrigerator.

Print
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Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe

Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe


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4.6 from 39 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Delectable Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars promise a rich, comforting dessert that celebrates plant-based indulgence. Nutty pecans and warm cinnamon blend seamlessly, creating a sweet treat that delights with each wholesome bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 ¾ cups almond flour
  • ¼ cup coconut flour
  • ½ cup chopped pecans
  • ⅓ cup creamy cashew butter or almond butter

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

  • 2 flax eggs (2 tablespoons flax meal mixed with 6 tablespoons water)
  • 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • ½ cup unsweetened almond milk

Spices and Leavening:

  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda

Optional Frosting:

  • ½ cup vegan cream cheese or thick coconut yogurt
  • 12 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Create flax eggs by blending flax meal with water in a small bowl, allowing the mixture to thicken for 5 minutes, creating a gelatinous texture.
  2. Combine coconut oil, cashew butter, maple syrup, almond milk, and prepared flax eggs in a large mixing bowl, whisking until the mixture achieves a silky, uniform consistency.
  3. In a separate container, thoroughly blend almond flour, coconut flour, ground cinnamon, and baking soda, ensuring no lumps remain.
  4. Gradually incorporate dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring gently until fully integrated, then delicately fold chopped pecans throughout the batter.
  5. Heat oven to 350F (175C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing slight overhang for easy removal.
  6. Transfer batter to prepared pan, carefully smoothing the surface with a spatula to create an even layer.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until a inserted toothpick emerges clean and the edges turn golden brown.
  8. Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely at room temperature.
  9. Prepare frosting by blending vegan cream cheese, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup until achieving a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  10. Once bars are fully cooled, generously spread frosting across the surface, creating an even layer.
  11. Slice into square portions and serve immediately or refrigerate for a firmer texture.
  12. Store remaining bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Swap flax eggs with chia seeds for a different binding agent that works equally well in vegan baking.
  • Adjust maple syrup quantity based on desired sweetness level, knowing that less syrup creates a more subtle, nutty flavor profile.
  • Toast pecans beforehand to intensify their natural richness and create deeper, more complex nutty undertones in the bars.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smoother mixing and more consistent texture throughout the batter.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
Dave Mitchell

Dave Mitchell

Founder & Chief Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Grilling Techniques and Innovations​
  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Culinary Education and Workshops​
  • Food Photography and Styling

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and menu planning, with a special emphasis on grilling and outdoor cooking. ​


Dave Mitchell is the heart behind Daves Grill, a cook, writer, and lover of all things grilled. He studied Culinary Arts at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and spent years cooking, testing, and sharing recipes that actually work.

Dave started Daves Grill to keep things simple: one great recipe at a time. His food is bold, easy to follow, and made for real people with regular kitchens. From juicy steaks to quick sides, Dave’s recipes bring the heat without the hassle.

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