Pecan pie bars bring the classic flavors of a traditional pecan pie into a portable and easy-to-eat form. With a buttery crust and a gooey, nutty filling, these bars are perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a sweet indulgence. Plus, they combine all the deliciousness of pecan pie without requiring a pie crust, making them a favorite among both novice and seasoned bakers.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 9 bars
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 300
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 80mg
Why Make This Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan pie bars are an ideal dessert for those who love the rich, nutty flavor of pecans combined with a sweet, gooey filling. They are easy to make, require minimal effort, and are baked in one pan, which means less cleanup. These bars will impress your friends and family with their delightful texture and sweet aroma. Whether for a holiday celebration, a cozy family dinner, or a casual get-together with friends, pecan pie bars are sure to be the highlight of the dessert table.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bars
Making pecan pie bars is straightforward and involves mixing a few key ingredients. The result is a rich, sweet treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s go through the steps for creating these delicious bars.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish to prevent the bars from sticking.
-
Step 2: Mixing the Crust
In a bowl, combine flour, softened butter, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until it forms a crumbly dough. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased baking dish to create an even crust.
-
Step 3: Preparing the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
-
Step 4: Baking
Pour the pecan mixture over the prepared crust in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan pie bars shine on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For added flair, drizzle some caramel sauce over the bars before serving. They make for a delightful treat at family gatherings, potluck dinners, or even as a sweet snack with coffee or tea.
How to Store Pecan Pie Bars
To store your pecan pie bars, let them cool completely before cutting them into squares. Place the bars in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are properly wrapped to maintain freshness.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars
- Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This helps create a flaky crust.
- To enhance the flavor of the pecans, toast them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until fragrant before adding them to the filling.
- Use fresh ingredients, especially eggs and corn syrup, for the best flavor and texture.
- If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling slightly.
Delicious Variations
- Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add in some chocolate chips or chunks to the filling for a delicious twist.
- Maple Pecan Bars: Substitute corn syrup with maple syrup for a distinct flavor.
- Coconut Pecan Bars: Mix in some shredded coconut along with the pecans for a tropical taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use different nuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds for the pecans, or even use a mix of nuts for a flavorful variation. -
What can I use in place of corn syrup?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a natural alternative to corn syrup, but keep in mind the flavor will change slightly. -
How can I tell when the pecan bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they are set and slightly jiggle in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. -
Can I make these bars in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the bars the day before serving. Just store them in the refrigerator once cool. -
How should I cut the bars?
After cooling completely, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into even squares. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a paper towel between cuts.
Conclusion
These pecan pie bars are a delightful dessert that combines the beloved flavors of classic pecan pie into a convenient form. They’re simple to create and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family. With their rich, sweet filling and buttery crust, these bars are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Try them today and enjoy each delicious bite!
Print
Pecan Pie Bars
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan pie bars bring the classic flavors of a traditional pecan pie into a portable and easy-to-eat form with a buttery crust and a gooey, nutty filling.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 3/4 cup corn syrup
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish to prevent the bars from sticking.
- In a bowl, combine flour, softened butter, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until it forms a crumbly dough. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the greased baking dish to create an even crust.
- In another bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the prepared crust in the baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. Let it cool completely before cutting into bars and serving.
Notes
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For added flair, drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
