Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious, easy-to-make dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of classic pecan pie with the convenience of bar form. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat, these bars deliver all the gooey, caramel-like filling and crunchy pecans you love, but in a more portable and shareable version. Read on to learn how to make this crowd-pleasing dessert!

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Bars

For the crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes

For the filling:

• 3/4 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (lightly toasted, if preferred)

How to Make Pecan Pie Bars

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix using a pastry cutter, fork, or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can also use a food processor for quicker results.
3. Press the dough: Press the crust mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth and well combined.
2. Add the pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the filling: Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the pecan filling mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake the bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden. The center should be slightly firm to the touch, but a bit jiggly—this ensures the bars will firm up as they cool.
3. Cool and slice: Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. For best results, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before slicing.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars

• Crust texture: Make sure to use cold butter for the crust. This will ensure a flaky and crisp texture.
• Use toasted pecans: Toasting the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes will bring out their natural oils and deepen their flavor.
• Don’t overbake: The filling should still have a slight jiggle when you remove the bars from the oven. Overbaking can lead to a tough texture.
• Storage: Pecan pie bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Why You’ll Love Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan Pie Bars offer all the goodness of traditional pecan pie without the hassle of a pie crust and are much easier to serve. They make the perfect dessert for gatherings, as they’re easier to transport and portion than a full pie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these bars are a great choice to impress your guests with minimal effort!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy-to-make, sweet, and nutty dessert, Pecan Pie Bars should be at the top of your list. With their golden crust, gooey caramel filling, and crunchy pecans, they’re sure to become a favorite. Whether you make them for the holidays or just as an everyday treat, these bars will quickly become a beloved recipe in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!

Serving and Storage Tips for Pecan Pie Bars

Serving Tips

1. Portioning: Pecan pie bars can be cut into small squares or larger slices, depending on the occasion. For gatherings, cut them into bite-sized pieces to encourage sharing and easy snacking. If serving at a holiday meal or special event, consider cutting them into larger, more elegant pieces.
2. Pairing with Beverages: These bars pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Try serving them with a hot cup of coffee, a latte, or a spiced cider for a warm, comforting treat. If you’re serving them for dessert, they also go beautifully with a glass of dessert wine or a rich, dark chocolate drink.
3. Topping Suggestions: For an extra indulgent treat, serve the pecan pie bars with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. A sprinkle of sea salt on top can help balance the sweetness and add a touch of gourmet flair.
4. Presentation: Arrange the bars on a festive platter or serving tray. For a more decorative touch, you can garnish the bars with extra toasted pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar.

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Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature: Pecan pie bars can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days. Simply place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Be sure the container isn’t too tight to avoid squashing the bars.
2. Refrigeration: If you prefer to store them for a longer period, place the bars in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 1 week. If storing in the fridge, bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
3. Freezing: To preserve the bars for even longer, freeze them. Wrap each individual bar tightly in plastic wrap or wax paper, and then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours or warm them up gently in the microwave.
4. Preventing Sticking: To prevent the bars from sticking to each other, consider separating layers with parchment paper or wax paper when storing or freezing them. This will help maintain their shape and make them easier to grab and serve.

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With these serving and storage tips, your Pecan Pie Bars will stay fresh and delicious, making them the perfect treat to enjoy anytime!

1. Can I make Pecan Pie Bars ahead of time? Yes! Pecan Pie Bars are a great make-ahead dessert. You can prepare them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to a week. If you freeze them, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

2. Can I substitute the corn syrup in the filling? While corn syrup is commonly used in Pecan Pie Bars to give the filling its signature texture and sweetness, you can substitute it with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture of the bars, as corn syrup helps achieve the gooey consistency.

3. How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy? To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, make sure to bake it until it is golden brown (about 12-15 minutes). Allow the crust to cool slightly before adding the filling. You can also brush a thin layer of melted chocolate or egg wash on the crust before baking to create a barrier and help maintain its crispness.

4. Can I use different nuts in place of pecans? While pecans are the traditional choice for these bars, you can swap them with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts if desired. However, the flavor and texture will change, so be sure to choose a nut that complements the filling and crust.

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