Why Make This Recipe
Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie. They offer the same rich, nutty flavor but in a convenient bar form. Perfect for gatherings, these bars are easy to cut and serve, making them ideal for sharing. Plus, they combine simple ingredients to create a dessert that feels special without too much fuss. Whether you’re looking for a dessert for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- ¾ cup cold butter
- ⅔ cup firmly packed brown sugar
- ⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon flour
- 4 large or extra large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups dark corn syrup
- 2 cups roughly chopped pecans (no need to toast)
Directions:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper. This makes it easy to lift out the bars after baking and ensures clean cutting.
- Set your oven to 350°F for aluminum pans or 325°F for glass bakeware.
- Mix 1¾ cups flour with ½ cup sugar. Rub cold butter into this mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, using your hands or a food processor.
- Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan’s bottom.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes until the edges start to brown. Remove from the oven and keep the oven on.
- In a bowl, thoroughly combine ⅔ cup brown sugar with ⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon flour to prevent lumps. Whisk in the eggs, vanilla, salt, and corn syrup until smooth. Let this mixture rest for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to help the flour soften and thicken the topping.
- Fold in the chopped pecans. Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the hot crust right after removing it from the oven.
- Return to the oven and bake for 40–50 minutes until the filling is set but may wobble slightly in the center, like firm jelly. Baking time varies slightly depending on the pan material.
- Let the bars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours or overnight to fully set.
- Lift the entire batch out using the parchment paper and place it on a cutting board. Use a sharp serrated knife held horizontally to saw gently through the nut layer for clean cuts. Cut into smaller bars, as these are rich and satisfying.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan pie bars are best served chilled or at room temperature. You can enjoy them plain, or you might add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra treat. They pair nicely with coffee or a glass of milk, making them perfect for dessert after a meal or as an afternoon snack.
How to Store Pecan Pie Bars
To store pecan pie bars, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to a week when stored properly. If you want to make them ahead of time, you can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer.
Tips to Make Pecan Pie Bars
- Make sure your butter is cold for the crust. This will help create a flaky texture.
- Allow the topping mixture to rest to ensure that the flour has time to absorb the moisture and thicken properly.
- For easier cutting, use a sharp serrated knife and saw gently through the bars rather than pressing down.
Variation
If you want to mix things up, try adding chocolate chips to the pecan mixture before pouring it over the crust. You could also substitute walnuts for pecans, or use a mix of nuts for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of syrup?
Yes, you can use light corn syrup, maple syrup, or even honey in place of dark corn syrup. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly.
2. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pecan pie bars can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge, and they’ll taste even better after sitting overnight.
3. How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The filling should be set but may wobble slightly in the center when you take it out. Let the bars cool and set completely in the refrigerator for the best texture.
Pecan Pie Bars
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious pecan pie bars that offer the same rich, nutty flavor as traditional pecan pie in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- ¾ cup cold butter
- ⅔ cup firmly packed brown sugar
- ⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups dark corn syrup
- 2 cups roughly chopped pecans
Instructions
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (325°F for glass bakeware).
- Mix 1¾ cups flour with ½ cup sugar and rub in cold butter until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes until the edges start to brown.
- In a bowl, combine ⅔ cup brown sugar and ⅓ cup plus 1 tablespoon flour. Whisk in the eggs, vanilla, salt, and corn syrup until smooth.
- Let the mixture rest for about 15 minutes.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and pour evenly over the hot crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 40–50 minutes until the filling is set but slightly wobbles in the center.
- Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for several hours to set.
- Lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into smaller bars.
Notes
For easier cutting, use a sharp serrated knife and saw gently through the bars.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg