Gluten-Free Pecan Bars

Golden, gooey, and irresistibly nutty, these Gluten-Free Pecan Bars deliver all the cozy charm of pecan pie in easy, shareable squares. With a buttery shortbread crust and maple-kissed filling, they’re perfect for gifting, parties, or that quiet afternoon coffee moment.

Why You’ll Love These Gluten-Free Pecan Bars

These bars combine a buttery shortbread base with a rich, glossy maple-pecan topping that bakes into a chewy, caramelized layer. They skip corn syrup completely, using maple syrup and brown sugar for deep, natural sweetness. You’ll love the balance of textures—the tender crust, sticky filling, and crunchy pecans in every bite. Plus, they’re easy to prep, gluten-free, and can even be made dairy-free. Perfect for make-ahead holiday baking, dessert tables, or gifting to friends. Once you slice into these golden bars, your kitchen will smell like Christmas morning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll need gluten-free all-purpose flour (a blend like GF Jules works beautifully) for a tender crust. Add granulated sugar and a pinch of salt to balance sweetness. Butter or dairy-free butter gives that rich flavor. For the topping, you’ll mix eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to create a gooey caramel-like base. Fold in pecan halves and pieces for crunch. No corn syrup here—just real maple sweetness. For a dairy-free twist, swap in vegan butter. Every ingredient works together to create a rich, buttery, nutty dessert that’s pure holiday comfort.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Gluten-Free Pecan Bars

Prepare the Shortbread Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, sugar, and salt. Add butter gradually using a hand or stand mixer until the dough forms. It may look crumbly at first—keep mixing until smooth. Press the dough evenly into your baking pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 14–15 minutes, just until lightly golden. This base gives structure to your bars, so an even press and bake make all the difference.

Make the Pecan Filling

While the crust bakes, beat the eggs in a bowl until well combined. Add maple syrup and brown sugar, whisking until frothy. Stir in vanilla, melted butter, and pecans. This creates a glossy, rich filling that caramelizes perfectly as it bakes. Once your crust is ready, pour the pecan mixture over it and spread evenly. Sprinkle on extra pecans if you’d like more crunch. Bake again until the filling sets and the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. This step is key—cutting too soon can make the filling sticky and messy. Once cooled, slice into squares for clean edges and a firm, chewy texture.

Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Pecan Bars

Don’t worry if your shortbread dough looks crumbly; it smooths out as you mix. Use room-temperature ingredients for even texture and better binding. Always cool the bars fully before slicing so they hold their shape. Use fresh, quality pecans for the best nutty flavor. Want extra flair? Add a few chopped pecans on top before baking for a pretty finish. For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative—it still tastes amazing. And since these bars don’t use corn syrup, you’ll get a cleaner, maple-forward sweetness that’s perfect for fall and winter baking.

Storage, Make-Ahead, and Serving Tips

Store your gluten-free pecan bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. They taste great chilled or at room temperature. If you’re planning ahead, make them up to two days before serving. Just cover the pan and refrigerate—they’ll stay fresh and flavorful. When ready to serve, slice into neat squares and arrange on a festive tray. They also pack beautifully for cookie exchanges or edible gifts. Serve them as part of your holiday dessert spread alongside your favorite hot drink for a cozy, sweet ending.

Common Questions About Gluten-Free Pecan Bars

Related Recipes to Try

• Pecan Pie Brownies
• Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
• Crumbl Pecan Pie Cookie Recipe
• Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars
• Apple Crumble Cheesecake
• Pumpkin Dump Cake

Final Thoughts

These Gluten-Free Pecan Bars are the perfect blend of sweet, buttery, and nutty comfort. They’re easy to make, simple to slice, and endlessly shareable. Whether you’re baking ahead for the holidays or treating yourself on a chilly weekend, these bars deliver homemade warmth in every bite. I’d love to hear how yours turn out—try them once, and they might just become your new favorite holiday dessert. You can also find more festive baking ideas on Pinterest.

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