Gluten-Free Pecan Bars: A Delightful Treat for Any Occasion
Looking for a delicious and easy gluten-free dessert that's sure to impress? These gluten-free pecan bars are the answer! Combining a buttery shortbread base with a rich, caramelized pecan pie filling, they offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
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Get Your Copy TodayThese bars are ideal for anyone following a gluten-free lifestyle, providing a satisfying treat without compromising dietary needs. Their versatility makes them perfect for holiday gatherings, weekend parties, or even a simple weeknight indulgence.
The recipe is straightforward and uses common pantry ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, baking in bar form offers convenient portion control – perfect for enjoying a taste of pecan pie without committing to a full slice. This recipe uses gluten-free all-purpose flour to create a delicious treat. Let’s explore how to make these delightful gluten-free pecan bars!
Gluten-Free Pecan Bars Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create delicious gluten-free pecan bars with a buttery shortbread crust and a rich pecan topping.
Shortbread Cookie Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine gluten-free all-purpose flour, cane sugar, and salt. Ensure ingredients are well distributed. For best results, we recommend using GF Jules gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- Add butter, one piece at a time, while the mixer is running on medium speed.
- Continue to mix until a dough forms. Note: Depending on the softness of the butter, the mixture may initially appear shaggy. Keep mixing on medium speed until a dough comes together, this could take a few minutes.
- Once the dough has formed, press it evenly into the bottom of an ungreased baking pan.
- Bake in a preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Pecan Topping
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined.
- Add maple syrup and brown sugar to the eggs. Beat until the mixture is slightly frothy.
- Stir in vanilla extract and butter until well combined.
- Fold in the pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Assembly and Baking
- Pour the pecan topping evenly over the pre-baked shortbread cookie base.
- For an appealing presentation, sprinkle a few whole or crushed pecans on top of the filling.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely before slicing into squares.
Enjoy these delightful gluten-free pecan bars—perfect for any occasion!
Gluten-Free Pecan Bars: A Be Gluten Free Recipe
Indulge in these delectable gluten-free pecan bars, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, nutty pecan pie filling. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any time you crave a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
Shortbread Cookie Base:
- gluten-free all purpose flour (we use GF Jules)
- cane sugar
- salt
- butter or dairy free butter
Pecan Topping:
- eggs
- maple syrup
- brown sugar
- vanilla extract
- a touch of butter
- pecans
Nutritional Information & Gluten-Free Benefits
These pecan bars are naturally gluten-free when made with a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend like GF Jules. This makes them a safe and delicious option for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approximate):
- Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free flour, ensuring they are safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Healthy Fats: Pecans are a great source of healthy fats, which are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being.
- Fiber: Pecans also provide a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Pecans contain various vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, contributing to overall health.
- Maple Syrup: Using maple syrup as a sweetener provides a more natural alternative to refined sugars, offering antioxidants and minerals.
Please Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
Tips, Substitutions & Variations for Dietary Needs:
General Tips:
- Flour Power: For the best results, use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend like GF Jules. Different blends may yield slightly different textures.
- Butter Consistency: Make sure your butter is softened for the shortbread crust, but not melted. This will help create a crumbly yet cohesive dough.
- Pecan Perfection: For a more intense pecan flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the filling.
- Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing for clean, even cuts.
Substitutions & Variations:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free butter in both the crust and filling to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Nut-Free: While this recipe is centered around pecans, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar and maple syrup slightly to lower the overall sugar content. You can also use a sugar substitute, but be mindful of how it affects the texture.
- Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken) and use dairy-free butter.
- Add a Zest: Enhance the flavor by adding orange zest or lemon zest to the shortbread crust or pecan filling.
Enjoy experimenting with these gluten-free pecan bars to create a treat that perfectly fits your dietary needs and taste preferences!