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
Scale
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.
