If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with a buttery, tender crust, you’ve found it. This Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves pecan pie but prefers the convenience of a handheld treat. With a perfectly crisp crust and gooey, caramel-like filling loaded with crunchy pecans, these bars are simply irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a casual get-together, or just because, these bars will quickly become your new favorite sweet indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the flaky all-purpose flour crust to the luscious filling sweetened with corn syrup and brown sugar, every component contributes to the deliciousness of these pecan bars.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Creates the sturdy yet tender crust that holds everything together beautifully.
- Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds just a touch of sweetness to the crust for balance.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon and 1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness both in crust and filling.
- Unsalted butter, cold and cubed (1/2 cup): Ensures a flaky crust with a rich, buttery flavor.
- Light corn syrup (1 cup): Gives the filling its signature caramel texture and sweetness.
- Packed brown sugar (3/4 cup): Adds deep, molasses notes that deepen the flavor of the filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/4 cup): Adds moistness and richness to the filling.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Brings warmth and complexity to the filling’s flavor profile.
- Large eggs (3): Bind the filling ingredients while adding a bit of fluffiness.
- Pecan halves or chopped pecans (2 cups): Provide the delightful crunch and nutty goodness that make these bars truly special.
How to Make Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This step ensures that your bars bake evenly and come out effortlessly once done.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until you see coarse crumbs forming. This crumbly texture is key for a buttery, flaky crust.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan to form a solid base. Bake it in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color. Once baked, set it aside to cool completely before adding the filling.
Step 4: Whisk the Filling
While your crust cools, combine the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a large bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and well blended. Then, add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to ensure a silky, smooth filling.
Step 5: Add Pecans and Pour
Stir in the pecans, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the filling. Pour this mixture carefully over the cooled crust, spreading it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
Step 6: Bake the Bars
Place the pan back in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and beautiful golden brown forms around the edges. This is when the filling becomes perfectly sticky and packed with flavor. Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan before moving on to slicing.
Step 7: Slice and Enjoy
Once cooled, slice the pecan pie bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. These bars are perfectly sized for sharing or enjoying as a decadent personal treat.
How to Serve Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch of elegance and sweetness to these bars. For an extra indulgent finish, dollop a spoonful of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top before serving.
Side Dishes
Pair these pecan pie bars with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a satisfying taste experience. They also complement fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries, balancing richness with a fresh burst.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your pecan bars on a rustic wooden board or a bright, colorful platter to make the rich amber color of the filling pop. You can also drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle with chopped pecans for added texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps maintain their crisp crust and chewy filling without drying out.
Freezing
To enjoy these bars later, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to two months. When ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
If you prefer your pecan bars warm, pop individual pieces in a microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. You can also gently heat them in an oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 10 minutes to revive that freshly baked aroma and texture.
FAQs
Can I use pecan pieces instead of halves?
Absolutely! Both pecan halves and chopped pecans work wonderfully in this recipe. Chopped pecans integrate more evenly throughout the filling, while halves lend a beautiful visual effect on top.
What if I don’t have corn syrup?
You can substitute light corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, though the texture and sweetness might vary slightly. Adjust to taste and keep in mind that corn syrup lends that classic sticky, chewy finish.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just make sure it includes a binding agent or add a teaspoon of xanthan gum for best results.
How long does it take for the bars to set?
Allowing the bars to cool completely before slicing is essential. This usually takes about 1 to 2 hours at room temperature. The filling firms up as it cools, making for clean cuts and the perfect texture.
Can I double the recipe?
You can! If you want more of these delicious bars, simply double each ingredient and bake in two pans or a larger pan, adjusting baking times slightly as needed for even cooking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe that makes it a must-have in your dessert rotation. With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, it’s a joy to make and even more delightful to eat. Whether you’re a pecan lover or just looking for a tasty treat to impress your friends and family, these bars promise to satisfy every time. Grab your baking pan and get ready to create some sweet magic!
Print
Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Easy Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious twist on traditional pecan pie, featuring a buttery, tender crust topped with a rich, gooey pecan filling. Perfect for any occasion, they combine the classic flavors of pecan pie into convenient, handheld bars that are simple to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and cut it into the dry ingredients using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form and Bake the Crust: Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan to create a firm and even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the crust turns lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the Pecan Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Add Pecans and Pour Filling: Stir the pecan halves or chopped pecans into the filling mixture. Pour this filling evenly over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out to cover the crust completely.
- Bake the Bars: Bake the assembled pecan bars for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown around the edges. Remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
- Slice and Serve: Once cooled, cut the pecan pie bars into squares and serve. These bars are perfect for dessert, potlucks, or gifting.
Notes
- Be sure the butter for the crust is cold to achieve a flaky texture.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to avoid gooey or under-set filling.
- Store pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can use chopped pecans for a more even texture or halves for a rustic look.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.
