Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

These Simple Pecan Pie Bars combine the rich, nutty flavor of classic pecan pie with the convenience of a handheld dessert. With a buttery crust and a sweet, gooey filling loaded with chopped pecans, they’re perfect for holidays or anytime you crave a delicious treat.

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 the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until 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 filling evenly over the hot baked crust and spread it out smoothly.
7. Step 7: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and does not jiggle.
8. Step 8: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, refrigerate for about an hour before cutting.
9. Step 9: Serve the pecan pie bars chilled or at room temperature and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use toasted pecans for a deeper nutty flavor.
• Swap light corn syrup with maple syrup for a natural sweetener alternative.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle some whole pecans on top before baking.
• Make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

Storage

Store the pecan pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before serving. Reheat briefly in the microwave or enjoy chilled for the best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be prepared a day or two in advance. Refrigerate after cooling, and slice just before serving for best results.

What can I use instead of corn syrup?

You can substitute light corn syrup with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey, though this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the filling.

Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

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4.5 from 142 reviews

These Simple Pecan Pie Bars combine the classic flavors of pecan pie in a convenient bar form. Featuring a buttery, crumbly crust and a rich, gooey filling loaded with chopped pecans, these bars are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Easy to prepare and bake, they offer all the satisfying taste of traditional pecan pie without the fuss of a crust in a pie dish.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• 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

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Press and Bake Crust: Evenly press the crumbly crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
4. Prepare Filling Mixture: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until smooth.
5. Add Pecans: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture, distributing them evenly.
6. Pour Filling Over Crust: Remove the hot crust from the oven and pour the pecan filling evenly over it, spreading it out gently.
7. Bake the Pecan Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, until the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan.
8. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, refrigerate for about an hour before cutting into bars.
9. Serve: Serve the pecan pie bars chilled or at room temperature as a delicious dessert or treat.

Notes

• Use cold butter for a crumbly and tender crust.
• Ensure the filling is fully set before removing from the oven to avoid a runny center.
• Refrigerating before slicing sharpens the cuts and makes serving easier.
• You can substitute light corn syrup with golden syrup or a mild honey if desired, but it may alter the texture slightly.
• Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Keywords: pecan pie bars, pecan dessert, easy pecan bars, holiday dessert, nut bars