Salted Caramel Pecan Chickpea Blondies — Gooey Vegan Treat

These Salted Caramel Pecan Chickpea Blondies are chewy, gooey, and impossibly caramel-like while remaining gluten-free, vegan, and free of refined sugar. They’re a healthier dessert option that still delivers rich, satisfying flavor.

Tastes Like a Gooey Caramel Cookie Bar!

The combination of pure maple syrup, cashew butter, coconut sugar and a hint of cinnamon transforms the chickpeas into a sweet, toffee-like base. The chickpeas provide structure and protein, but their flavor is masked by the caramel notes. These bars are soft, chewy, and will convince even skeptical eaters that they’re biting into a classic salted caramel blondie.

Gluten-free, Vegan, Refined Sugar-Free and Dairy-free

This recipe covers many dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Canned garbanzo beans form the base, and a small amount of oat or almond flour improves texture. The recipe avoids eggs and dairy by using coconut oil instead of butter, and natural sweeteners like pure maple syrup and coconut sugar replace refined sugars to enhance a caramel flavor.

These substitutions keep the blondies plant-based and approachable for gluten-free or dairy-free households while remaining simple to prepare.

Ingredients

• Canned Chickpeas: Garbanzo beans are the main ingredient, providing plant-based protein and a sturdy base.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Natural liquid sweetener that lends caramel notes.
• Cashew Butter (or other nut butter): Adds creaminess and a mild, sweet flavor—cashew butter is ideal, but almond or peanut butter will work.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and flavor depth.
• Oat Flour (or almond flour): A small amount helps firm up the batter and improves texture.
• Coconut Sugar: Contributes to the toffee-like caramel aroma and taste.
• Coconut Oil: Melted, it keeps the bars moist and gives a slightly richer mouthfeel.
• Salt: Balances sweetness; flaky sea salt is recommended for finishing.
• Cinnamon: A pinch adds warmth and complexity.
• Baking Powder and Baking Soda: Light leavening to give a tender crumb.
• Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch and a nutty caramel flavor—an excellent alternative to chocolate chips.
• Sea Salt: For sprinkling on top to create a sweet-and-salty finish.

Substitutions and Tips

Nut butter swap: If you don’t have cashew butter, almond or peanut butter will work. Cashew butter gives the most neutral, caramel-like finish.

Don’t skip the sea salt: A coarse sprinkle on top elevates the flavor by contrasting the sweetness—use flaky sea salt or pink Himalayan salt.

Recipe