World’s Healthiest & Easiest Pecan Pie
on Oct 08, 2024, Updated Oct 18, 2024
Traditional pecan pie is packed with sugar, butter, and corn syrup—but not this one! My World’s Healthiest & Easiest Pecan Pie has only three ingredients: dates, pecans, and vanilla bean powder. It’s just as rich and decadent as the classic, but without any of the unhealthy stuff. Plus, it couldn’t be easier to make!
Why I Love This Recipe
Hey there, fabulous foodies! I’m always on the lookout for ways to make healthier versions of classic desserts, and this pecan pie is a game-changer. With only three whole-food ingredients, it’s as easy as pie (pun intended) and every bit as indulgent as the traditional version. Dates provide the perfect natural sweetness, while the pecans add a rich, buttery texture. And guess what? No oven required! This pie is a raw, no-bake treat that you can whip up in no time. It’s become a holiday favorite in my house, and I’m sure it will be in yours too!
Key Ingredients
- Pecans: Raw, unsalted pecans are the star of this pie. They’re full of healthy fats and provide a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of dates.
- Dates: Naturally sweet, dates are the base of both the crust and filling. They give this pie its caramel-like flavor without needing any refined sugar.
- Vanilla Bean Powder: Adds warmth and depth to the pie, enhancing the sweetness of the dates and the nuttiness of the pecans.
The Process
Crust:
Start by making the crust. In a food processor fitted with the “S” blade, process the pecans and vanilla bean powder into a flour-like consistency. Be careful not to overprocess—you don’t want to end up with nut butter! Add the pitted dates and process until a ball forms. Press the crust evenly into a 9-inch round springform pan lined with parchment paper.
Filling:
Next, move on to the filling. Drain the soaked dates, but save the soaking liquid. In the food processor, blend the dates with the reserved soaking liquid and vanilla bean powder until smooth and creamy. Add finely ground pecans and process again until well combined. Pour the filling over the crust, smoothing it out evenly.
Topping:
Decorate the top of the pie with raw pecan halves. If you want that glossy, traditional pecan pie look, drizzle some date syrup over the top. Place the pie in the freezer until firm.
Chef’s Tips
- Make sure to soak the dates long enough so they blend smoothly.
- This pie is best served straight from the freezer or slightly thawed. Do not store in the refrigerator as it will affect the texture.
- For a glossy, traditional look, drizzle date syrup over the top before freezing.
- You can make mini pies using muffin tins with the same process!
How to Store Pecan Pie
Store the pie in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Serve directly from the freezer or let it thaw slightly for a softer texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
A high-powered blender could work, but a food processor is recommended for the best texture.
Yes! Walnuts or almonds could be used in place of pecans, though the flavor will change slightly.
Yes, freezing helps set the pie and gives it the right texture. It’s best served frozen or slightly thawed.
Serving Suggestion
This pie is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something sweet but healthy. Top with a scoop of banana nice cream or drizzle with extra date syrup for added indulgence.
Summary
World’s Healthiest & Easiest Pecan Pie is the perfect guilt-free treat for any occasion. Made with just dates, pecans, and vanilla bean powder, this raw, no-bake pie is easy to make and incredibly delicious. Keep it in the freezer for a go-to dessert that’s naturally sweet and indulgent!
If you tried this recipe, I’d love to see your results! Share your culinary creation on social media and tag me. As the Queen of Quick and Easy, nothing makes me happier than seeing how my convenient plant-based recipes inspire your kitchen adventures. Let’s celebrate the love of cooking and enjoy the deliciousness together!
World’s Healthiest & Easiest Pecan Pie
Equipment
- Food processor
- 9" round springform pan
Ingredients
Crust
- 8 ounces raw, unsalted pecans (about 2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
- 12 ounces pitted dates, about 2 cups
Filling
- 16 ounces pitted dates, about 2½ cups soaked in 2 cups water until soft
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
- 12 ounces raw, unsalted pecans (about 3 cups), finely ground
Topping
- 1 -2 cups raw, unsalted pecan halves
- 2-4 Tablespoons date syrup, optional
Instructions
Crust
- Place pecans and vanilla bean powder in a dry food processor fitted with the “S” blade and process into a flour-like consistency. Do not overprocess or you will get nut butter.
- Add dates and process until a ball forms.
- Press crust evenly into a 9-inch round springform pan lined with a piece of parchment paper.
Filling
- Place dates, soaking liquid, and vanilla bean powder into a large food processor fitted with the “S” blade and purée until smooth.
- Add the finely ground pecans and process again until creamy.
- Pour over crust and freeze until firm. Decorate the top with pecan halves before freezing.
Topping
- If you want your pie to look glossy like a traditional pecan pie, simply pour date syrup evenly over the top before freezing.
Thank you Chef AJ for this beautiful recipe!! I was looking for a grain free cake recipe and this one was perfect! Easy and delicious. Not only me but my picky husband loved it as well!!!
Everyone loved it and easy to make!