Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

These simple pecan pie bars combine a buttery crust with a rich, gooey pecan filling for a delightful dessert that’s easy to make. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a sweet treat at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

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 bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
3. Step 3: Press this crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden.
4. Step 4: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl until smooth.
5. Step 5: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture until well combined.
6. Step 6: Pour the pecan filling over the hot baked crust and spread it out evenly.
7. Step 7: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the center is set and no longer jiggles.
8. Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, refrigerate for at least one hour before cutting.
9. Step 9: Serve the pecan pie bars chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them into the filling.
• You can substitute half the pecans with walnuts for a different nutty flavor.
• Using cold butter helps create a flakier crust texture.
• Line your baking pan with parchment paper to make removal and slicing easier.

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 one week. Before serving, bring them to room temperature or enjoy chilled. Bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of syrup?

Yes, you can substitute light corn syrup with maple syrup or honey, but note that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the filling.

How can I tell when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the center no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan and the edges are set. The top should have a glossy, slightly firm appearance.

Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

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4.9 from 51 reviews

These Simple Pecan Pie Bars combine a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich, gooey pecan filling, perfect for a delicious dessert or snack. Easy to make and packed with nutty flavor, they are a classic treat that can be served chilled or at room temperature.

• Author: Yana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
2. Make crust mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly and holds together when pressed.
3. Bake crust: Evenly press the crumbly crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from oven and keep oven on.
4. Prepare filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Add pecans: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture ensuring even distribution.
6. Combine and bake: Pour the pecan filling over the hot baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center of the filling is set and does not jiggle when gently shaken.
7. Cool bars: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature in the pan.
8. Refrigerate before slicing: For clean, neat slices, refrigerate the bars for at least one hour before cutting them into serving-sized bars.
9. Serve: Serve the pecan pie bars chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is cold when mixing the crust to achieve a crumbly texture.
• Press the crust firmly into the pan to avoid a thick bottom layer.
• Do not overbake the filling; it should be set but moist, not dry.
• Chilling the bars before slicing helps maintain clean edges and prevents crumbling.
• Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Can be served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.

Keywords: pecan pie bars, pecan bars, easy pecan dessert, pecan pie, dessert bars, nutty dessert, Thanksgiving dessert