Maple Pecan Pie Bars (diabetic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Maple pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering a chewy, nutty texture with a hint of maple sweetness. Traditionally, pecan pie has roots in Southern cuisine, where it has been a staple dessert for generations. These bars maintain the essence of the original while being mindful of sugar content, making them a perfect treat for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
In this diabetic-friendly version, we swap out traditional corn syrup for pure maple syrup, which has a lower glycemic index and provides a rich flavor without overwhelming sweetness. We also incorporate almond flour into the crust for a nutty base that complements the pecans beautifully. The result is a dessert that feels indulgent but is crafted with care for those mindful of their sugar levels.
These maple pecan pie bars are not just for those with dietary restrictions; they are a hit at any gathering. Whether served at a holiday feast or a casual get-together, they are sure to impress with their rich flavor and satisfying crunch. Plus, they are easy to make ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen. Just remember, sharing is caring—unless you’re hiding them from your family, in which case, we understand!
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups almond flour
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter
- 0.5 cups erythritol
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 0.5 cups pure maple syrup
- 1 cups chopped pecans
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the bars evenly without burning the edges.
- Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later. This will help you lift the bars out without a fuss.
- In a medium bowl, combine 1.5 cups of almond flour, 0.5 cups of erythritol, and 0.25 teaspoons of salt. Mix well to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Melt 0.5 cups of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Pour the melted butter mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a crumbly dough forms. This dough will serve as the base for your bars.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use your fingers or the back of a measuring cup to ensure it’s compact and even.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden. This pre-baking step helps create a sturdy base for the filling.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 0.5 cups of pure maple syrup, and 0.5 teaspoons of cinnamon until well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans into the egg mixture. The pecans will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the filling.
- Once the crust is done, remove it from the oven and pour the pecan filling over the hot crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are firm but the center has a slight jiggle.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before lifting them out using the parchment overhang. This cooling time helps the filling firm up.
- Once cooled, cut into 12 squares and serve. These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Enjoy your maple pecan pie bars as a guilt-free treat! Just remember, moderation is key—unless you’re planning to hide them from your family!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbs g: 8
- Protein g: 3
- Fat g: 16
- Sugar g: 1
