If you're craving a sweet fall treat that's both delicious and vegan, you're in the right place! I’ll show you how to make Vegan Pumpkin Pie Bars, perfect for autumn gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these bars will delight everyone, whether they’re vegan or not. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dessert that brings comfort and flavor to your fall celebrations!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: These bars are packed with the warm, cozy flavors of fall, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with almond flour and oats, these bars are a healthier alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, keeping the guilt at bay.
- Vegan-Friendly: This recipe is completely plant-based, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice, regardless of dietary preferences.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, these pumpkin pie bars come together quickly, making them a breeze to prepare.
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredients List
To make these vegan pumpkin pie bars, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup coconut oil, melted
- ⅓ cup maple syrup (for the crust)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
- ⅓ cup coconut cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
- ½ cup maple syrup (for the filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
These ingredients create a rich and creamy filling that sits on a nutty, sweet crust.
Substitutions or Alternatives
You can make some fun swaps if you have other ingredients at home:
- Use oat flour instead of almond flour for a different flavor.
- Swap coconut oil with vegetable oil or vegan butter if needed.
- Try agave syrup or brown rice syrup instead of maple syrup.
- If you don’t have coconut cream, full-fat coconut milk works great too.
- For a nut-free option, use sunflower seed flour instead of almond flour.
These alternatives keep your bars tasty and vegan.
Dietary Considerations
These bars are perfect for many diets:
- They are vegan and free from animal products.
- Gluten-free options are easy with oat flour.
- They are refined sugar-free when using maple syrup.
These bars make a wonderful treat for everyone, no matter their diet!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Crust
To start, you need to gather your crust ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 ½ cups almond flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ¼ cup melted coconut oil
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon salt
Mix these ingredients until they form a dough. Next, press this dough evenly into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking pan. This creates a solid base for your bars. Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Once done, take it out and let it cool for a bit.
Making the Filling
Now, let's make the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
- ⅓ cup coconut cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ginger
- ¼ teaspoon allspice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined. This filling will add rich flavor to your bars.
Assembling and Baking the Bars
Pour the pumpkin filling over your cooled crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center. After baking, let the bars cool at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Refrigerate them for at least 2 hours to help them set completely.
When they are firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Slice them into squares and serve! These bars are great chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this delightful fall treat!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Texture
For the best pumpkin pie bars, focus on your filling. Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. This keeps flavors fresh and allows for more control over sweetness and spices. The right balance of coconut cream gives the bars a creamy texture. If you want a firmer filling, add more cornstarch. It helps the bars hold their shape after cooling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One big mistake is overbaking the bars. The filling should jiggle slightly in the center when done. If it looks too solid, it may become dry. Be sure to let the crust cool before adding the filling. This step keeps the crust crisp and prevents sogginess. Also, remember to chill the bars after baking. This helps them set up nicely and enhances the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These bars are great chilled or at room temp. For a fun touch, top them with a dollop of coconut whipped cream. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon or nutmeg on top for added flavor. Serve with a cup of warm apple cider or herbal tea for a cozy vibe. For a twist, try pairing them with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Pumpkin: For the best flavor, consider using fresh pumpkin instead of canned. Roast and puree your own pumpkin for a more vibrant taste.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours after baking. This helps the filling set properly and enhances the flavors.
- Perfectly Spice It Up: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Add more cinnamon or a pinch of cloves for an extra flavor kick!
- Substitutions: If you don't have almond flour, you can use oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for the crust.
Variations
Gluten-Free Options
You can easily make these bars gluten-free. The almond flour and oats are both gluten-free. Make sure your oats are labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a tasty treat without worrying about gluten.
Flavor Variations (Spices, Extracts)
You can change the spices to fit your taste. Try adding cardamom for a warm twist. You can also use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices. For a fun flavor, add a splash of almond or coconut extract. This gives the bars an extra layer of taste.
Different Sweeteners
Maple syrup is great, but you can swap it out. Try agave syrup or brown rice syrup if you want. You can also use coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. Just remember that each sweetener may change the texture a bit, so check as you mix!
Storage Information
Best Practices for Storing
To keep your vegan pumpkin pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Be sure to keep them in the fridge. This helps maintain texture and flavor. If you use coconut cream, it may soften if left out.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these bars for later. First, slice the bars into squares. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you want to eat them, thaw in the fridge overnight.
How Long They Last
These bars stay fresh in the fridge for about one week. If you follow the storage tips, they maintain their taste and texture. If stored properly, frozen bars can last up to three months. Enjoy them chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these vegan pumpkin pie bars ahead of time. They taste great when chilled. I often prepare them a day before I plan to serve them. This allows the flavors to blend well. Just cover them with plastic wrap or keep them in an airtight container. You can enjoy them for up to four days in the fridge.
What can I use instead of almond flour?
If you need a substitute for almond flour, use oat flour or a gluten-free blend. Oat flour is easy to make. Just blend rolled oats in a blender until fine. You can also try using all-purpose flour if you are not gluten-free. This will change the flavor a bit but still keep the bars tasty.
Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener?
You can use agave syrup or brown rice syrup instead of maple syrup. Both sweeteners work well and add a nice flavor. If you want a lower-carb option, try erythritol or stevia. Just remember to adjust the amounts, as some sweeteners are sweeter than maple syrup.
We covered the key ingredients, steps, and tips for making delicious bars. You learned about crust prep, filling details, and common mistakes to avoid. Remember, variations and substitutions let you customize your bars. Proper storage helps them last longer. With these insights, you can create tasty treats that suit your taste and diet. Enjoy baking and sharing your bars with friends and family.
