Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering the perfect combination of a buttery crust and a rich, nutty filling. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at any gathering or enjoying as a sweet treat at home.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pecans (chopped)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
3. Step 3: While the crust is cooling, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla in another bowl until smooth.
4. Step 4: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture until they are well coated.
5. Step 5: Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, then return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Step 6: Let the bars cool completely before cutting them into squares for serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling.
• Substitute half of the light corn syrup with honey for a richer taste.
• Use a mix of pecans and walnuts for a nutty variation.
• If you prefer a softer crust, reduce the baking time of the base by a few minutes.

Storage

Store pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To enjoy warm bars, reheat briefly in the microwave or oven before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts to customize the flavor and texture.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep the bars moist and tender.

Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 103 reviews

Deliciously rich and buttery pecan pie bars featuring a crumbly shortbread crust topped with a sweet and gooey pecan filling. These bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing as a dessert or snack.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)

Filling

• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pecans (chopped)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Make the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and room-temperature unsalted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this crumbly dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
3. Bake crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes until it is lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
4. Prepare filling: In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, light corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Add pecans: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture until they are fully coated.
6. Assemble and bake: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
7. Cool and serve: Remove from oven and allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Notes

• For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator after they have cooled completely.
• Ensure pecans are evenly chopped for consistent texture throughout the bars.
• Use light corn syrup for the best traditional pecan pie flavor; dark corn syrup will create a richer, deeper taste.
• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• You can toast the pecans lightly before adding for an extra nutty flavor.

Keywords: pecan pie bars, pecan bars, dessert bars, pecan dessert, holiday dessert, sweet bars, nut bars