Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Simple pecan pie bars offer all the rich, nutty flavor of traditional pecan pie in a convenient, easy-to-slice form. These bars have a buttery crust topped with a sweet, gooey pecan filling, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Step 3: Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until the crust is lightly golden.
4. Step 4: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl until smooth.
5. Step 5: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture.
6. Step 6: Pour the filling evenly over the hot baked crust and spread gently.
7. Step 7: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle in the center.
8. Step 8: Let the bars cool completely in the pan. For cleaner slices, refrigerate for about an hour before cutting.
9. Step 9: Serve the pecan pie bars chilled or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling.
• Swap light corn syrup for maple syrup for a subtly different flavor profile.
• Use salted butter and reduce added salt for a richer taste.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice note.

Storage

Store pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual bars briefly in the microwave. Bars also freeze well for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans, depending on your preference or what you have on hand. The flavor and texture will be slightly different but equally delicious.

Why is my pecan pie filling runny?

If the filling is runny, it may need more baking time to fully set. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and bake until the center no longer jiggles. Cooling completely before slicing also helps the filling firm up.

Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 142 reviews

• Author: Marina
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 bars 1x

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Description

Simple Pecan Pie Bars combine a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich, gooey pecan filling for a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. These bars offer the classic flavors of pecan pie in a convenient bar form that can be served chilled or at room temperature.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Crust Mixture: In a bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly with pea-sized pieces.
3. Press and Bake the Crust: Evenly press the crumbly crust mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and set.
4. Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
5. Add Pecans to Filling: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture until evenly distributed.
6. Assemble Bars: Once the crust is done baking, pour the pecan filling over the hot crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan.
8. Cool and Chill: Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For cleaner slices, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before cutting into squares.
9. Serve: Serve the pecan pie bars chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Notes

• Ensure the butter is cold when cutting it into the flour to achieve a crumbly texture for the crust.
• For cleaner slices, chilling the bars before cutting is recommended.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: pecan pie bars, pecan bars, easy pecan dessert, holiday dessert bars, buttery crust pecan bars