Pecan Pie Bars

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If you’ve ever craved the rich sweetness of classic pecan pie but wanted something a little easier to serve and share, then these pecan pie bars are the answer.

They pack all the wonderful flavors of traditional pecan pie into a deliciously simple bar form, making them perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in.

Not only are they delightful, but they’re also easy to make, and you’ll appreciate how quick the preparation really is.

So, let’s dive into the details on how to create these mouthwatering bars!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These pecan pie bars are a dream come true for anyone who loves dessert.

They’re sweet, nutty, and have that perfect crunch that makes each bite incredibly satisfying.

They bring together the flavors of buttery crust, golden syrup, and crunchy pecans all in one neat little package.

Plus, they are great for serving a crowd or for when you’re craving a smaller slice of pecan pie goodness.

Trust me, once you try these bars, they’ll become your new go-to dessert!

Ingredients

To make scrumptious pecan pie bars, you’ll need the following:

• 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (67 g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (170 g) salted butter, melted
• 1 cup (240 ml) corn syrup
• ¾ cup (150 g) packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans
• ½ teaspoon salt

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a flavorful and textured dessert that everyone will love!

How To Make Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

While it warms up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar.

Pour in the melted butter and mix everything together until the mixture looks crumbly and somewhat like wet sand.

Spread this mixture evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish and press it down firmly.

This will be your lovely crust!

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Now it’s time to bake the crust.

Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown.

While it’s baking, you can work on the filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In another large bowl, combine the corn syrup, packed brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.

Whisk everything together until smooth and fully combined.

It should be a lovely, glossy mixture.

Add the chopped pecans and gently stir them in, making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Step 4: Assemble Your Bars

Once your crust is done baking, remove it from the oven and pour the pecan filling mixture over the baked crust.

Make sure to spread it out evenly with a spatula.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes.

You want the filling to be set but slightly jiggly in the center—it will firm up as it cools.

Step 5: Cool and Cut

After baking, take these beauties out of the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack.

For the best results, allow them to cool completely before cutting into bars.

This helps the filling to set perfectly and makes slicing much easier.

Once cooled, you can cut them into squares or rectangles, depending on how large you like your servings.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the cooling time! Letting the bars cool completely will help them hold their shape when cut.
• For an extra crunch, toast your pecans lightly before adding them into the filling.
• If you want a deeper flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more indulgent dessert!

Variations and Customizations

• If you want to add a twist, try incorporating chocolate chips or white chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful surprise.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spiced note.
• For a nut-free version, you can replace the pecans with chocolate or dried fruits.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for an over-the-top treat.

How to Store Leftovers

These pecan pie bars are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

If you want them to last longer, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week.

Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

You can even freeze them! Wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

Whenever you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, simply thaw and enjoy.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of nut in these bars?

Absolutely! You can use any nut you like—walnuts or almonds are great alternatives if you want to switch things up.

Can I make these bars without eggs?

Yes, you can replace eggs with a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg substitute for a similar binding effect in the filling.

How can I tell when the bars are done baking?

The filling should be set in the middle but may still have a slight jiggle.

Once cooled, it will firm up nicely.

What is the best way to cut the bars for serving?

Use a sharp knife to cleanly cut the bars, and for the neatest cuts, consider running the knife under hot water and drying it off before each cut.

Conclusion

These pecan pie bars are a deliciously simple dessert that packs all the flavors of classic pecan pie without the fuss.

They’re perfect for sharing, and with their wonderfully sweet filling and crunchy pecan topping, they’re sure to become a hit! Whether you serve them at holiday gatherings or enjoy them during a quiet afternoon, these bars are a delightful treat you can feel good about making.

Grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and indulge in the sweet, nutty goodness of these pecan pie bars today!

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