Heavenly Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe

Divine Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe: Guilt-Free Joy

Creamy, dreamy vegan cinnamon pecan bars dance with irresistible flavors that capture the essence of comfort baking.

These delectable treats blend rich nutty pecans with warm, spicy cinnamon in a plant-based delight.

Sweet layers of goodness melt together, creating a dessert that surprises and satisfies even the most discerning palate.

Soft, tender textures complement the robust crunch of toasted pecans throughout each delightful bite.

Crafted with simple ingredients and minimal effort, these bars showcase how plant-based desserts can be incredibly indulgent.

The magic happens when wholesome components transform into a mouthwatering experience that beckons you to savor every single morsel.

Prepare to fall in love with this decadent vegan treat that promises pure culinary bliss.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Calories: 180 kcal

Servings: 17

Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bar Ingredient Essentials

For Binding and Moisture:
  • Flax Meal: Creates egg-like texture and helps bind ingredients.
  • Water: Activates flax meal and adds necessary moisture.
  • Almond Milk: Ensures smooth batter consistency and adds subtle nutty flavor.
For Sweetness and Fat:
  • Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener with rich caramel undertones.
  • Coconut Oil: Provides creamy texture and healthy fat.
  • Cashew Butter: Adds richness and smooth consistency.
  • Vegan Cream Cheese: Creates silky frosting with tangy notes.
For Structure and Flavor:
  • Almond Flour: Gluten-free base with nutty flavor.
  • Coconut Flour: Adds lightness and absorbs moisture.
  • Cinnamon: Warm spice that enhances overall sweetness.
  • Baking Soda: Helps bars rise and become fluffy.
  • Pecans: Introduces delightful crunch and earthy undertones.

Tools for Whipping Up Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars

  • Mixing Bowls: One large and one small for separating wet and dry ingredients.
  • Whisk: Essential for blending wet ingredients smoothly.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurements are key for perfect bars.
  • 8×8-inch Baking Pan: Perfect size for creating evenly baked bars.
  • Parchment Paper: Ensures easy removal and prevents sticking.
  • Toothpick: Used to check if bars are fully baked.
  • Spatula: Helps fold pecans and spread batter evenly.
  • Small Bowl: For preparing flax eggs and frosting.

How to Make Spiced Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Easily

  • Create Flax Mixture

Blend flax meal with water and let it transform into a thick gel-like consistency for about 5 minutes.

  • Blend Wet Components

Whisk coconut oil, cashew butter, maple syrup, almond milk, and flax mixture until silky smooth in a large mixing bowl.

  • Combine Dry Elements

Mix almond flour, coconut flour, cinnamon, and baking soda in a separate container. Gently fold these dry ingredients into wet mixture. Add chopped pecans and stir until evenly distributed.

  • Bake to Perfection

Heat oven to 350F. Line an 8-inch pan with parchment paper. Pour batter and smooth the surface. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow bars to cool completely.

  • Craft Creamy Topping

Blend vegan cream cheese, coconut oil, and maple syrup until ultra-smooth. Generously spread over cooled bars.

  • Serve and Savor

Cut into delectable squares. Keep leftovers chilled in refrigerator for lasting freshness.

Mix-Ins and Tips for Better Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars

  • Tips to elevate your baking game and make this treat irresistible.
  • Ensure your flax eggs are perfectly thickened by letting them rest exactly 5 minutes at room temperature for optimal binding.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to create a smoother batter and ensure even mixing, which helps achieve a more consistent bar texture.
  • Swap pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for those with nut allergies, maintaining the delicious crunch without compromising flavor.
  • Replace maple syrup with monk fruit sweetener or stevia for a diabetic-friendly version that cuts down on overall sugar content while preserving the delightful sweetness.

Serving Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars with Cozy Vibes

  • Nutty Brunch Companion: Pair these bars with a steaming cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee or herbal tea for a delightful morning treat that warms both heart and soul.
  • Sweet Dessert Alternative: Cut into smaller bite-sized pieces for a perfect after-dinner nibble that satisfies sweet cravings without overwhelming richness.
  • Picnic Perfect Snack: Pack these bars in a sealed container for outdoor adventures, road trips, or casual gatherings where a protein-packed, naturally sweet option is welcome.
  • Wellness Breakfast Boost: Crumble over dairy-free yogurt or blend into a smoothie for an extra nutritional punch with crunchy pecan texture and warming cinnamon flavor.

Store Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Without Losing Texture

  • Keep your cinnamon pecan bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cold storage helps maintain their delightful texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
  • Prepare the entire batch of bars up to 3 days before serving. These treats actually taste better after the flavors have melded together, making them perfect for advance preparation.
  • Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They'll stay delicious for 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying for the best taste and texture.
  • Cut bars into uniform squares before storing. This makes grab-and-go snacking easier and helps control serving sizes. Stack with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their beautiful appearance.

FAQs

  • Are these bars gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe uses almond flour and coconut flour instead of wheat flour, making them naturally gluten-free.

  • Can I substitute the nuts in the recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even skip nuts if you have allergies.

  • Is the recipe suitable for people with soy allergies?

Yes, this recipe is completely soy-free, using alternatives like cashew butter and coconut oil instead of traditional soy-based ingredients.

  • How do I know when the bars are perfectly baked?

The bars are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the edges look slightly golden brown.

Print
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Heavenly Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe

Heavenly Vegan Cinnamon Pecan Bars Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 17 1x

Description

Cinnamon pecan bars blend creamy cashew filling with a nutty graham cracker crust for a delightful vegan dessert. Spiced with warm cinnamon and topped with toasted pecans, these bars offer rich flavors you’ll savor with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ¾ cups (220 g) almond flour
  • ½ cup (60 g) chopped pecans
  • ¼ cup (30 g) coconut flour
  • ⅓ cup (80 ml) creamy cashew butter or almond butter
  • 2 flax eggs (2 tbsps flax meal mixed with 6 tbsps water)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) unsweetened almond milk
  • 3 tbsps (45 ml) coconut oil, melted
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) maple syrup
  • 2 tsps ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ cup (120 ml) vegan cream cheese or thick coconut yogurt
  • 12 tbsps (180 ml) coconut oil, melted
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Prepare Binding Agent: Whisk flax meal with water, allowing the mixture to develop a gelatinous consistency for 5 minutes.
  2. Create Wet Base: Combine coconut oil, cashew butter, maple syrup, almond milk, and flax eggs, whisking until achieving a smooth, homogeneous liquid.
  3. Mix Dry Components: Sift together almond flour, coconut flour, ground cinnamon, and baking soda, ensuring no clumps remain.
  4. Develop Batter: Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, then incorporate chopped pecans, maintaining a light and even distribution.
  5. Prepare Baking Environment: Preheat oven to 350F (175C), line an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper, creating slight overhangs for easy extraction.
  6. Bake and Set: Pour batter into prepared pan, smoothing the surface, then bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick emerges clean and edges turn golden brown.
  7. Cool and Rest: Remove from oven and allow bars to cool completely at room temperature, ensuring structural integrity.
  8. Craft Frosting: Blend vegan cream cheese, melted coconut oil, and maple syrup until achieving a silky, spreadable consistency.
  9. Finish and Serve: Spread frosting evenly across cooled bars, slice into portions, and serve immediately or refrigerate for enhanced texture.
  10. Storage: Preserve remaining bars in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

  • Manage Flax Egg Consistency: Ensure flax meal and water blend completely, waiting full 5 minutes to achieve proper gelatinous texture which acts as critical egg replacement.
  • Prevent Dry Bars: Mix wet and dry ingredients gently to avoid overmixing, which can create dense, tough texture in gluten-free vegan baking.
  • Control Baking Temperature: Watch bars closely during final 5-10 minutes of baking, as almond and coconut flour can quickly transition from perfectly golden to burnt.
  • Optimize Cooling Process: Allow bars to cool entirely at room temperature before frosting to prevent melting and maintain structural integrity of the dessert.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 17
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 95 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
John Nicholson

John Nicholson

Lead Writer & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Recipe Testing and Development, Kitchen Hacks and Time-Saving Tips, Flavor Pairing and Ingredient Selection, Engaging Food Writing and Storytelling

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: A hands-on curriculum emphasizing farm-to-table cooking, local ingredient sourcing, and creative menu development. Students gained real-world restaurant experience, learning both classic techniques and modern approaches to sustainable cooking.

John Nicholson honed his skills at Johnson & Wales University, learning how to use fresh, local ingredients and down-to-earth techniques to make cooking simple and satisfying.

His recipes blend Southern comfort flavors with a modern touch, inviting everyone to cook with ease and confidence.

Living in Charleston, John takes cues from the city’s lively food scene, local markets, and seasonal produce. He’s all about making meals stress-free through easy tips, flavor pairings, and fun experiments in the kitchen

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