Featuring nutrient-rich dates and buttery pecans, these no-bake bars are deceptively brimming with a variety of B vitamins, iron, and fiber-- but, all you will taste is the distinctive, rich flavor of pecan pie!
Optional: 1 1/2 cups dark chocolate chips, divided for filling/topping
Instructions
Line an 8" x 8" baking dish with plastic wrap, for easy removal of the bars.
In a large food processor, combine the crust ingredients and blend until a sticky dough is formed. Press the crust into the lined baking sheet, using your hands or a spatula to smooth it out. *For dark chocolate pecan pie bars, melt 1 cup of dark chocolate chips and pour the melted chocolate over the crust, using a spatula to spread evenly.
Place the crust in the freezer to set, while you prepare the filling.
For the filling, combine all of the ingredients in a high-speed blender, or food processor, and blend until thoroughly combined. You may need to stop and scrape down the sides, or use a tamper, to keep everything blending smoothly. Adjust sweetness to taste, if necessary.
Remove the crust from the freezer, and pour in the filling, using a spatula to smooth the top. Sprinkle the additional cup of raw pecans over the top, and gently press them into the filling for easy serving. Drizzle an additional 1/2 cup of melted dark chocolate chips over the top, if desired.
Return the bars to the freezer, and allow them to set for at least 6 hours, or overnight, before cutting and serving.