Pecan Pie Bars: The Ultimate Sweet Treat for Dessert Lovers
Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich, gooey filling that’s bursting with sweet, nutty flavor. Imagine biting into a warm, chewy bar topped with crunchy pecans and a hint of vanilla, all drizzled with a luscious maple syrup substitute for that extra touch of sweetness. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this irresistible treat and savor every bite!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Indulge in the perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors.
- Enjoy a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie in bar form.
- Easy to make, with simple ingredients you likely have at home.
- Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a personal treat.
- Rich, gooey filling with a buttery crust that melts in your mouth.
pecan pie bars
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the crust.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of softened butter. Mix until crumbly and press it into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Pop the crust into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of corn syrup, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 3 large eggs. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans into the filling mixture.
- Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
- Serve your pecan pie bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Dessert |
| Cuisine: | American |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian |
| Serves: | 12 bars |
| Best Served: | Warm or at room temperature |
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter – adds richness and helps create a tender crust.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the filling and balances flavors.
- Brown sugar – enhances the caramel flavor in the filling.
- All-purpose flour – forms the base of the crust for a sturdy texture.
- Eggs – binds the filling together and provides structure.
- Vanilla extract – adds depth and enhances sweetness.
- Light corn syrup – gives the filling its signature gooey texture.
- Pecans – the star ingredient, providing crunch and nutty flavor.
- Salt – balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up some delicious pecan pie bars with these easy steps!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you prepare the crust.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of softened butter.
Mix until crumbly and press it into the bottom of a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Pop the crust into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of corn syrup, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 3 large eggs.
Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until smooth.
Step 5: Add the Pecans
Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans into the filling mixture.
Step 6: Combine and Bake
Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your pecan pie bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
• Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean slices.
• Substitute corn syrup with maple syrup for a unique twist.
• Add a pinch of sea salt to enhance the sweetness.
• Experiment with chocolate chips for an extra indulgent touch.
How to Serve
- Top with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for a sweet finishing touch.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top to enhance the flavors.
- Enjoy with fresh berries for a fruity twist.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces for a perfect party snack.
- Serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing balance.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage ensures your pecan pie bars stay delicious for days. Here’s how to keep them fresh!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow bars to cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezing
- Wrap bars tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating
- Thaw bars in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
- Serve warm for the best texture and taste.
FAQs
What can I use as a substitute for corn syrup in pecan pie bars?
You can use maple syrup or honey as a great alternative to corn syrup. They will add a unique flavor while still providing the necessary sweetness and texture for your pecan pie bars.
Can I make pecan pie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pecan pie bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and they’ll be ready to enjoy when you are!
How do I store leftover pecan pie bars?
To keep your pecan pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I freeze pecan pie bars?
Yes, you can freeze pecan pie bars! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw them in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—delicious pecan pie bars that are sure to bring a smile to your face! With their sweet, nutty flavor and buttery crust, these treats are perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner baker, and enjoy the simple pleasure of creating something delightful. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!
Hungry for more delicious creations? Browse our site for more recipes and endless inspiration to spark your next culinary adventure!
