Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a delectable dessert experience like no other – Pecan Pie Bars! Combining the rich flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a handheld treat, these bars are sure to become a favorite indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat to satisfy your dessert cravings or looking for the perfect addition to your next gathering, these Pecan Pie Bars are guaranteed to impress. Join us as we delve into the world of baking and discover the magic of creating these irresistible treats from scratch.
INGREDIENTS:
For the Crust:
100 grams coconut oil, melted
50 grams panela sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
150 grams white spelt flour
For the Filling:
5 ripe apricots, thinly sliced
50 grams panela sugar
15 grams white spelt flour
Juice from half a lemon
A pinch of smoked salt
For the Streusel Topping:
50 grams old-fashioned oats
70 grams panela sugar
30 grams white spelt flour
50 grams coconut oil
80 grams toasted pecans, crushed
INSTRUCTIONS:
For the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted coconut oil, panela sugar, vanilla extract, and salt.
Gradually add the white spelt flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
For the Filling:
In a separate mixing bowl, toss the thinly sliced apricots with the panela sugar, white spelt flour, lemon juice, and smoked salt until well coated.
Spread the apricot mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
For the Streusel Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the old-fashioned oats, panela sugar, white spelt flour, and crushed toasted pecans.
Add the coconut oil to the dry ingredients and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the apricot filling.
Baking the Bars:
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the streusel topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Cook Notes and Variations:
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the streusel topping.
Experiment with different fruits for the filling, such as apples, pears, or berries, to create your own unique flavor combinations.
If you prefer a sweeter filling, you can increase the amount of panela sugar in the filling mixture or drizzle the bars with honey or maple syrup before serving.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
To make a keto-friendly version of these bars, you can substitute almond flour or coconut flour for the white spelt flour in the crust and streusel topping. Additionally, use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of the panela sugar.
For a lower-carb option, you can omit the apricots or use a smaller amount of fruit in the filling. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and topping or use a sugar-free fruit syrup as a sweetener.
In conclusion, Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a handheld treat. With their buttery crust, sweet fruit filling, and crunchy pecan streusel topping, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Whether you’re enjoying them as an afternoon snack, a dessert for a special occasion, or a treat to share with friends and family, these Pecan Pie Bars are guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of homemade baking at its finest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use a different type of nut for the streusel topping? Yes, you can use a variety of nuts in the streusel topping, such as almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts, to add different flavors and textures to the bars.
Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh for the filling? Yes, you can use frozen fruit in place of fresh for the filling. Simply thaw the fruit before using and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the filling is cooked through.
Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 1 month.
Can I use a different type of sugar for the crust and filling? Yes, you can use any type of sugar you prefer for the crust and filling. Feel free to use granulated sugar, brown sugar, or coconut sugar based on your personal preference.
Can I omit the oats from the streusel topping? Yes, you can omit the oats from the streusel topping if you prefer a nuttier texture. Simply increase the amount of crushed toasted pecans or add additional flour to compensate for the omitted oats.
