Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Introduction
Pecan pie is a classic dessert beloved for its rich, nutty flavor and gooey filling. But sometimes, you want all that indulgence without the fuss of rolling out pie crusts or slicing perfect wedges. Enter Easy Pecan Pie Bars—a handheld version of the traditional pie that’s just as decadent but far more convenient.
These bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious pecan filling. They’re chewy, crunchy, sweet, and salty all at once. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or even weekday treats, pecan pie bars are a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure for the crust.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and tenderness.
1/4 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
3 large eggs – Bind the filling and add richness.
1 cup light corn syrup – Creates the gooey texture.
1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar – Adds depth and caramel-like flavor.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans – The star ingredient, adding crunch and nuttiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a bowl, combine flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt.
Mix until crumbly.
Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 20 minutes, until lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, whisk eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
Stir in chopped pecans.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour filling over baked crust.
Return to oven and bake for 30 minutes, until filling is set.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Allow bars to cool completely.
Cut into squares and serve.
Baking Tips
Don’t overbake. The filling should be set but still slightly soft.
Use parchment paper. Makes removing bars easy.
Toast pecans before adding for extra flavor.
Cool completely before slicing to avoid messy cuts.
Use a sharp knife for clean edges.
Variations
Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add chocolate chips to the filling.
Maple Pecan Bars: Replace corn syrup with maple syrup.
Bourbon Pecan Bars: Add a splash of bourbon for depth.
Nut Mix Bars: Use a mix of walnuts, almonds, and pecans.
Mini Pecan Bites: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy dessert.
Add to holiday cookie platters for variety.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Nutrition (per bar, approx.)
Calories: ~280
Protein: ~4g
Fat: ~15g
Carbs: ~32g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to make: No pie crust rolling required.
Portable: Perfect for parties and potlucks.
Classic flavor: All the richness of pecan pie in bar form.
Versatile: Can be customized with different nuts or flavors.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves these chewy, nutty squares.
Conclusion
Easy Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect solution when you crave pecan pie but want something simpler and more shareable. With their buttery crust, gooey filling, and crunchy pecans, they deliver all the flavor of the classic dessert in a convenient bar form.
Bake a batch for your next gathering, and watch them disappear in minutes. These bars are proof that sometimes the easiest recipes are the most delicious.