Desserts

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Name: Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup melted butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup pure maple syrup; 3 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pecans; Sea salt (for sprinkling)

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Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the rich flavors of buttery pecans and the sweetness of pure maple syrup. These bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, boasting a chewy texture and just the right amount of salt to balance the sweetness. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them with your afternoon coffee, they are sure to impress.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 200
Protein: 3g per serving
Carbohydrates: 30g per serving
Fat: 10g per serving
Fiber: 1g per serving
Sugar: 15g per serving
Sodium: 100mg per serving

Why Make This Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The combination of sweet maple syrup, nutty pecans, and a touch of salt creates a flavor profile that feels sophisticated yet approachable. These bars are perfect for sharing with friends and family, making them an excellent choice for potlucks, picnics, or dessert tables. Plus, they offer a unique twist on the traditional pecan pie that many people can’t resist!

How to Make Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup melted butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
3 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
Sea salt (for sprinkling)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking pan. This will help ensure your bars do not stick to the pan and make for easier serving.

Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Next, add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is thoroughly combined, creating a delicious, glossy mixture.

Step 3: Cooking

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher bars. Once mixed, gently fold in the chopped pecans. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Finishing

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little sea salt on top to enhance the flavors and contrast the sweetness.

How to Serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

These bars are delicious eaten at room temperature or slightly warmed. They pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them drizzled with additional maple syrup or chocolate sauce!

How to Store Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze these delicious bars for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them securely to prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for Perfect Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality pecans. Toasting them lightly before adding them to the batter enhances their nuttiness.
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary; start checking your bars at the 25-minute mark to ensure you don’t overbake them. The bars should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the middle.
Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar if you prefer a less sweet treat. Just be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.
Add Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm flavor boost, particularly delightful in the colder months.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Swirl: Before baking, swirl in some softened cream cheese or chocolate ganache for a rich twist.
Nut Mix: Substitute half of the pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture and flavor.
Maple Crust: For an even more decadent treat, press the batter into a crushed graham cracker crust before adding the pecan mixture on top.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! While pecans are traditional, walnuts or almonds can be used as tasty alternatives.

2. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

3. Is it necessary to refrigerate these bars?
It’s not necessary, but refrigerating them can help prolong their freshness. They can be stored at room temperature for a few days.

4. How do I know when the bars are done?
The bars are done when they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

5. Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just use a larger baking pan and adjust the bake time accordingly. Keep an eye on them, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.

Conclusion

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are an enchanting dessert that beautifully balances sweetness and nuttiness with a hint of salt. They’re easy to prepare, perfect for sharing, and sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. So gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!