Pecan pie squares

I am surprised to see that nearly a week has passed since my last post. Alas, our household has been ill again this week and it seems that illness affects one's sense of time. We have had a poor winter when it comes to bugs. I had hoped that child-related illnesses would be held at bay until Mini Bite was a bit older, but I suspect our baby groups and activities are a hotbed for germs. Hopefully all of this exposure will be good for our immune systems in the long run!

Fortunately, these pecan pie squares are easy to whip up even if you aren't feeling entirely well. I actually planned to title them 'fruity pecan squares' as it seemed unlikely they would actually taste of pecan pie - and yet, somehow, they do. With a simple, whole food ingredient list they make for excellent snacking.

The topping for these is made from mixed dried fruit - the type that comes with multiple fruit varieties in the one bag. Mine had roughly equal parts of dried pears, dried apricots and prunes. I imagine different mixes would work just as well, with associated variations in flavour profile..

The only small downside to these is that after a few days stored in the fridge (and I think they do need to go in the fridge), the base softens and loses its initial biscuit-y texture. However, the squares still taste delicious and if the change in texture bothers you, take it as an excuse to eat these quickly!

Pecan pie squares

A delicious, whole food, no bake twist on pecan pie

Makes 12 squares

Vegan

Food processor required

Author: Bite-sized thoughts

Print recipe

Ingredients

For the base

1 cup pecan nuts

1/3 cup rolled oats

2/3 cup dates

For the topping

1 cup mixed dried fruit (approximately equal parts dried pears, dried apricots and dried prunes)

1 tsp mixed spice (pumpkin pie spice), or 1/2 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp each of nutmeg and cloves

Method

Line a loaf tin or small square tin with non-stick paper and set aside.

Combine the base ingredients in your food processor and process until crumbly and starting to stick together. Transfer to your prepared tin and press down firmly.

Combine the topping ingredients in your food processor and process until smooth but thick. Spoon over the base and distribute evenly across the tin.

Chill in the refrigerator for 4 or so hours before cutting into squares.

Submitted to Healthy Vegan Fridays.

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