If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect combination of gooey, nutty, and buttery all in one bite, you are going to adore this Pecan Pie Bars Recipe. It takes all the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie and transforms them into an easy-to-handle bar form, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or just treating yourself. Each bar offers a crisp, buttery crust with a luscious, caramel-like filling studded generously with crunchy pecans — it’s truly a crowd-pleaser that’s as simple to make as it is to enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step toward creating these irresistible pecan bars. Each component plays a crucial role: the butter lends a rich depth, the sugars sweeten and caramelize the filling beautifully, the eggs bind everything together, and the pecans provide that signature crunch and nutty flavor.
- Salted butter (½ cup and ¼ cup melted): The base for your crust and the secret to a tender, flavorful filling.
- Flour (1 cup): Gives the crust structure and a nice, firm foundation to hold your filling.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Adds just the right touch of sweetness to your crust with a delicate crispness.
- Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Brings deep, molasses-rich sweetness to the filling for that classic pecan pie taste.
- Dark corn syrup (½ cup): Creates the gooey texture that keeps your bars perfectly chewy and satisfying.
- Large eggs (2): Act as a binder and help the filling set perfectly during baking.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and enhances all the sweet flavors beautifully.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the nutty pecan flavor.
- Pecans (2 cups, whole or chopped): The star of the show! They bring irresistible crunch and a buttery richness.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your crust will bake evenly right from the start. To get the perfect buttery crust, mix your softened butter, flour, and granulated sugar in a bowl until it’s crumbly but holds together when pressed. Press this mixture firmly into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan so it creates an even layer that will support that luscious filling. Pop it in the oven and bake for 15 minutes until it becomes a lovely light golden brown — the perfect foundation for your bars.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Filling
While the crust is baking, you can prepare the heavenly filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and dark corn syrup until smooth and shiny. This mixture is the key to that gooey, caramel-like texture everyone loves. Slowly add your melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt, stirring well after each addition to combine everything into a silky batter. Gently fold in the pecans so each bite will have that perfect nutty crunch.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Once your crust has baked and cooled slightly, pour the filling right over it, spreading evenly. Return the pan to your oven for about 30 minutes. The filling will set and develop just enough firmness so the bars slice cleanly but stay delightfully gooey inside. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling and the center feels just set to the touch.
Step 4: Cool and Cut into Bars
Patience is key here — let your bars cool completely before slicing. This step allows the filling to fully firm up, making clean cuts easier and your bars prettier to serve. Once cooled, cut into 12 generous squares and get ready to savor every delicious bite of your homemade pecan pie bars.
How to Serve Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate these bars, consider adding a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that irresistible contrast of cold and creamy against the warm, nutty bars. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a pretty, festive touch and a hint more sweetness.
Side Dishes
These bars shine perfectly on their own but if you’re thinking about pairing, a cup of strong coffee or spiced chai tea complements the rich, caramel flavor so beautifully. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit such as sliced apples or pears adds refreshing balance to the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your pecan pie bars up a notch by serving them on a rustic wooden board crowned with a scattering of whole pecans and edible flowers. If you’re feeling playful, drizzle some warm caramel or chocolate sauce over the tops before serving. For a party, consider cutting bars into bite-size squares and skewering them with festive picks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep your pecan pie bars fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigeration helps maintain their texture and flavor for up to a week, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these bars later or prepare ahead for a busy day, they freeze beautifully. Simply wrap the cut bars individually or as a whole in plastic wrap and aluminium foil, and pop them into the freezer for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked warmth, reheat bars gently in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a warm oven (around 300°F) for 5–7 minutes. Just be careful not to overheat, or the filling can become too soft.
FAQs
Can I use chopped pecans instead of whole pecans?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans work just as well and can even make the bars easier to cut and eat without the large pieces. The flavor remains wonderfully nutty either way.
What makes this Pecan Pie Bars Recipe different from traditional pecan pie?
The bars have the same rich flavors and texture but are much easier to slice, serve, and share. Plus, the buttery crust layer adds a delightful crunch that complements the gooey filling perfectly.
Can I substitute corn syrup in the filling?
While corn syrup helps create that classic chewy texture, you can substitute with maple syrup or honey for a slightly different flavor profile. Just keep in mind these alternatives may alter the final texture a bit.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Baking the crust before adding the filling gives it a firm, golden base that resists sogginess. Make sure to press the crust evenly and bake it until just lightly golden for best results.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. The crust will be just as delicious, allowing everyone to enjoy these bars.
Final Thoughts
Making this Pecan Pie Bars Recipe is like capturing a slice of southern comfort in every bite. The ease of preparation, combined with that indulgent, nutty sweetness, makes it an all-time favorite to share with friends and family. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and fall in love with these bars as much as I have!
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Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pecan Pie Bars combine a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich, gooey pecan pie filling baked to perfection. Perfectly balanced with a hint of vanilla and a satisfying nutty crunch, these bars make a delightful dessert or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients
Crust
- ½ cup salted butter, softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Filling
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup dark corn syrup
- ¼ cup salted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups pecans, whole or chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the crust and filling.
- Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly and evenly combined. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar and dark corn syrup until smooth. Add the melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing thoroughly to combine. Gently fold in the pecans ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared filling evenly over the baked crust. Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and firm to the touch.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into 12 bars and serve.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh pecans to enhance the flavor and texture of the bars.
- Ensure the butter for the crust is softened to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Cooling the bars fully before cutting helps achieve clean slices and prevents the filling from oozing.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
