Gluten-Free Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Squares (Easy Holiday Dessert)

Published on Sep 27, 2018

  by   Kristina Stosek

18 reviews

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 55 minutes Serves: 9
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These Gluten-Free Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Squares are a simple two-layer dessert with a buttery shortbread base and a rich chocolate pecan topping. They bake into clean, sliceable squares with a soft, slightly sticky top and a crisp, tender base. If you like chocolate and pecans together, this combination is exceptionally tasty.

gluten-free chocolate pecan shortbread squares

Why This Recipe Works

  • Buttery gluten-free shortbread base
  • Chocolate pecan topping with the right balance of texture
  • Just 9 ingredients
  • Easy to make in stages
  • Perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays or gatherings

How to Make Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Squares (Overview)

Step 1: Prepare the shortbread base
Mix and press the shortbread dough into the pan. Bake briefly until lightly set.

Step 2: Add the topping
Stir together the chocolate pecan mixture and spread it over the partially baked base.

Step 3: Bake
Return to the oven and bake until the topping is set.

Step 4: Cool and slice
Let the squares cool completely before slicing for clean edges.

Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Squares

Texture + Flavor

  • Crisp, buttery base
  • Soft, rich chocolate topping
  • Crunch from pecans

Each layer balances the other without being overly sweet.

Serving Ideas

  • Dust lightly with cocoa powder
  • Serve with coffee or tea
  • Add a small scoop of vanilla ice cream

Storage

Store in a covered container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Make Ahead (Best for Holidays)

These squares are ideal for making ahead. Once cooled, they slice cleanly and hold well, making them perfect for Thanksgiving, Easter, or any gathering.

When it comes to holiday baking for Thanksgiving or Easter, traditionally, it’s gluten-free pumpkin pie and paleo chocolate pecan pie. This year I am breaking the tradition and will make chocolate pumpkin cake with ganache and these delicious chocolate pecan shortbread squares.

FAQ – Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Squares

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, they’re ideal for making ahead. Slice once fully cooled and store until ready to serve.

How do I know when they’re done baking?
The topping should be set and no longer wet in the center.

Do I need to refrigerate them?
They can sit at room temperature for a day or two, but refrigerating keeps them fresher longer.

Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge.

Tried these chocolate pecan shortbread squares?

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Kristina x

Gluten-Free Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Squares (Easy Holiday Dessert)

Published on Sep 27, 2018

by Kristina Stosek

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Ingredients

Instructions

  • 1.

    Preheat oven to 325 F and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper

  • 2.

    SHORTBREAD LAYER

  • 3.

    In a medium bowl beat the butter and sugar until creamy

  • 4.

    Stir in the flour to combine

  • 5.

    Evenly spread the batter into prepared baking pan and bake for 15 min

  • 6.

    CHOCOLATE PECAN LAYER

  • 7.

    While the shortbread layer is baking, make the chocolate pecan mixture

  • 8.

    In a medium bowl whisk together butter and maple syrup. Then whisk in the eggs, cream and vanilla

  • 9.

    Add pecans and chocolate chips and stir to combine. The pecan layer will firm up once finished baking

  • 10.

    When the base is finished baking pour the chocolate pecan mixture over the top and return back in the oven. Increase heat to 350 F and bake for 40 minutes

  • 11.

    Cool in the pan before slicing. Serve at room temperature

Nutrition Info

  • Nutritional Value Per Slice (Based on 9 Slices): Calories: 469.8 | Fat: 39.6 grams | Saturated Fat: 13.6 grams | Carbohydrates: 23.2 grams | Protein: 6.3 grams | Note: This calculation is approximate and can vary based on specific brands and variations in ingredient quantities.

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