✨ Low-Carb Keto Pecan Bars (No Sugar!) – 25-Minute Diabetic-Friendly Thanksgiving Treat
Enjoy buttery pecan bars sweetened with erythritol, low-carb and keto-friendly, ready in 25 minutes. Perfect for diabetic-friendly Thanksgiving tables.
These keto pecan bars are a game-changer for holiday desserts! With no sugar and just 2g net carbs per bar, they satisfy sweet cravings without spiking blood sugar. The rich buttery pecan filling is balanced by a crisp shortbread crust, all baked in one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for Thanksgiving tables needing a healthier option.
Whether you're following a keto diet, managing diabetes, or just want a lighter dessert, these bars deliver big flavor with minimal ingredients. The combination of toasted pecans and erythritol creates a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with coffee or tea.
Made with just 6 simple ingredients, these bars come together in 25 minutes. The crust is a mix of crushed pecans, butter, and erythritol, while the filling is a blend of melted butter, more pecans, and a touch of vanilla. No sugar, no flour, no guilt!
These bars are especially perfect for Thanksgiving - they're a festive alternative to traditional pecan pie, with a fraction of the carbs. They also freeze beautifully, making them ideal for meal prepping ahead of time.
Ready to impress your guests with a keto-friendly dessert that doesn't skimp on flavor? These pecan bars are sure to become a new holiday tradition!
Why This Recipe Works
⏰ Quick & Easy
Ready in 25 minutes with just 6 ingredients. No special equipment needed beyond a food processor or rolling pin for the crust.
💰 Affordable
Pecans and erythritol are budget-friendly staples for keto baking. You can make a large batch for under $10.
👥 Versatile
Perfect for keto, diabetic, low-carb, and paleo diets. Adjust sweetness to taste with different erythritol brands.
🌟 Crowd-Pleasing
The rich, buttery flavor satisfies sweet cravings while fitting into most dietary restrictions. A hit at holiday parties!
Low-Carb Keto Pecan Bars
Perfect for keto, diabetic-friendly Thanksgiving tables
🛒 Ingredients
- - 1 cup (120g) chopped pecans
- - 1/2 cup (110g) unsalted butter, melted
- - 1/3 cup (75g) erythritol
- - 1/4 tsp salt
- - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- - 1 cup (90g) pecan pieces
👨🍳 Instructions
Prepare Crust: In a food processor, pulse pecans until finely chopped. Add butter, erythritol, salt, and vanilla. Pulse until mixture holds together when pressed.
💡 Use a rolling pin if you don't have a food processor.
Press Crust: Transfer mixture to a parchment-lined 8x8-inch baking pan. Press evenly into the bottom using a spatula or measuring cup.
💡 For easier pressing, chill crust for 10 minutes first.
Make Filling: In a bowl, mix pecan pieces with melted butter and 1/4 tsp vanilla. Spread mixture evenly over crust.
💡 Toast pecans first for extra flavor.
Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Let cool completely before cutting into 12 bars.
💡 For crispier bars, bake 5 minutes longer.
Nutrition (per serving):
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Pecans
Provide rich flavor and crunch. Use walnuts or almonds if preferred.
Substitutions: 1 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
Erythritol
Low-calorie sweetener that doesn't spike blood sugar. Adjust to taste with monk fruit or stevia.
Substitutions: 3/4 cup monk fruit sweetener or 1/4 cup stevia
Vanilla Extract
Adds warm flavor. Use almond extract for a different twist.
Substitutions: 1/2 tsp almond extract
Butter
Provides richness and helps bind the crust. Use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Substitutions: 1/2 cup coconut oil
Pro Tips for Perfect Keto Pecann Bars
☕ Crust Binding
For a denser crust, chill the mixture for 10 minutes before pressing.
🔥 Baking
Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.
🍂 Texture
Add 1/4 tsp cinnamon to the crust for extra flavor.
🍁 Presentation
Dust with powdered erythritol before serving for a festive touch.
Variations & Customizations
Spiced Pecan
Add 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice to the crust and 1/4 tsp cinnamon to the filling.
Chocolate Drizzle
Melt 2 oz sugar-free chocolate and drizzle over cooled bars.
Nutty Mix
Combine 1/2 cup pecans with 1/2 cup chopped walnuts in the filling.
Citrus Zest
Add 1 tsp orange or lemon zest to the crust for a fresh twist.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
🍽️ Best Served With:
- Low-carb pumpkin soup
- Keto sweet potato casserole
- Grilled pork chops
🍷 Drink Pairings:
Pair with a dry riesling or unsweetened iced tea for a refreshing contrast.
Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead Tips
Assemble crust and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5 minutes to baking time.
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave for 10 seconds before serving.
Freezer Storage
Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Reheating Instructions
Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Troubleshooting & Common Questions
Q: My crust is too crumbly.
A: The mixture should hold together when pressed. Add 1-2 tbsp more melted butter until it binds.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your erythritol and vanilla are certified gluten-free.
Q: How do I prevent the filling from sinking?
A: Press the crust firmly into the pan and let it chill for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Q: Can I use a different sweetener?
A: Yes, try 3/4 cup monk fruit sweetener or 1/4 cup stevia. Adjust to taste.
Final Thoughts
These keto pecan bars are the perfect solution for satisfying sweet cravings while staying in ketosis or managing blood sugar. With just 2g net carbs per bar, they're a guilt-free treat that everyone will love. Whether you're hosting Thanksgiving or just want a quick dessert, these bars deliver rich flavor with minimal effort.
Save this recipe for your next holiday gathering or as a quick weeknight treat. With their buttery pecan flavor and crisp texture, they're sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
