Imagine sinking your teeth into a decadent chocolate treat that's not only incredibly delicious but also completely guilt-free. These No Bake Chocolate Pecan Bars are about to revolutionize your dessert game, offering a perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and nutty pecan crunch – all while being gluten-free and vegan! Whether you're a health-conscious foodie or simply craving a quick and easy dessert that doesn't compromise on taste, these bars are your ultimate solution.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Gluten Free, Vegan
Serves: 8 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecans
- 1 cup dates
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by lining an 8x8 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a food processor, pulse the pecans until they are finely chopped but not turned into powder, leaving some small chunks for texture.
- Add pitted dates to the food processor and blend until the mixture becomes sticky and starts to form a cohesive mass.
- Add cocoa powder, almond flour, maple syrup, and vanilla extract to the food processor. Pulse and blend until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and form a dense, dark mixture.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, using a spatula or the back of a spoon to press it down firmly and create an even layer.
- Place the pan in the refrigerator for approximately 1 hour to allow the bars to set and become firm.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and place on a cutting board.
- Using a sharp knife, cut into 8 equal rectangular bars.
- Store bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. For best texture, serve chilled.
Tips
- Use Medjool dates for the best natural sweetness and binding properties. They're softer and blend more smoothly than other date varieties.
- Don't over-process the pecans – you want some small chunks for texture and a more interesting mouthfeel.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan to ensure the bars hold together well when chilled.
- For an extra flavor boost, consider toasting the pecans lightly before processing to enhance their natural nutty flavor.
- If the mixture seems too dry, add a little extra maple syrup. If it's too wet, sprinkle in a bit more almond flour.
- Use a sharp, clean knife when cutting to get neat, precise bars.
- These bars are best served chilled, so keep them refrigerated until just before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
