Pecan Pie Bars: A Deliciously Easy Dessert Recipe

Dive into the irresistible world of pecan pie, but with a delightful twist! Forget the fuss of individual pies; we’re making Pecan Pie Bars – the perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and incredibly easy to make. These bars offer all the rich, decadent flavor of a classic pecan pie in a convenient, shareable format. Imagine the warm, gooey pecan filling nestled within a buttery, flaky crust, ready to be cut into perfect squares and enjoyed. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to dessert success. It’s the ideal treat for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply a satisfying end to a busy day. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these incredibly addictive Pecan Pie Bars – a dessert so good, you’ll want to make a double batch!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

This Pecan Pie Bars recipe is a game-changer for dessert lovers and busy bakers alike. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy. No complicated pie crust techniques or blind baking required. The simple crust comes together quickly, and the filling is a breeze to whip up. The result? A stunningly delicious dessert that won’t drain your precious time. Second, the flavor is undeniably spectacular. The combination of buttery, flaky crust and rich, gooey pecan filling is a symphony of textures and tastes. The sweetness is perfectly balanced, with a subtle hint of brown sugar adding depth and complexity. Each bite offers a delightful crunch from the pecans, followed by a melt-in-your-mouth experience from the warm, caramel-like filling. Third, these bars are incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for potlucks, parties, or a casual weeknight treat. Their convenient bar format makes them easy to transport and serve. Finally, they’re wonderfully adaptable. Explore variations with different nuts, spices, or even a chocolate swirl. This recipe is your blank canvas for creative dessert adventures.

These Pecan Pie Bars are also a fantastic way to showcase your baking skills without the commitment of a whole pie. They are a perfect dessert for those who love pecans, and also an excellent way to use up leftover pecans. Their rectangular shape is easier to cut and serve, making them ideal for parties or gatherings. And, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a gooey, pecan-packed treat?

Why You Should Try This Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, there are several compelling reasons to try this Pecan Pie Bars recipe. For starters, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Everyone loves pecan pie, and these bars offer a fun, updated presentation. It’s a dessert that’s sure to impress your guests, leaving them wanting more. Secondly, it’s a cost-effective dessert option. Compared to making individual pies, the bar format is more efficient, using less crust and reducing overall baking time. Thirdly, it’s a great recipe to share. Whether you’re bringing a dessert to a gathering or sharing it with loved ones, these bars are perfect for dividing and enjoying. The easy-to-cut format makes portioning effortless. Lastly, it’s a recipe that encourages experimentation. Feel free to tweak it to your liking. Add chocolate chips for an extra layer of decadence, or try different types of nuts for a unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless!

This Pecan Pie Bars recipe provides a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional pecan pie. If you’re looking for a recipe that is easy to follow, delicious, and visually appealing, then this is the perfect recipe for you. It’s a versatile dessert that can be adapted to fit any occasion, from casual gatherings to formal parties. The ease of preparation and the delicious outcome make this a recipe you will want to add to your collection of favorite recipes. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a stunning and flavorful dessert.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Pecan Pie Bars

Gathering the right ingredients and utensils is crucial for a successful baking experience. This section outlines everything you’ll need to create these delectable Pecan Pie Bars.

Ingredients:

• Crust:
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – provides the structure for the crust. You can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors of the crust.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes – creates a flaky, tender crust. Make sure the butter is very cold for optimal results.
• 1/4 cup ice water – binds the ingredients together. Use ice-cold water to keep the butter cold and prevent the dough from becoming tough.
• Filling:
• 1 cup granulated sugar – provides sweetness to the filling.
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – adds depth of flavor and moisture to the filling.
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup – adds richness and prevents the filling from becoming too dry.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted – contributes to the rich, creamy texture of the filling.
• 2 large eggs – bind the filling and add richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the flavor of the filling.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness of the filling.
• 2 cups pecan halves – the star of the show! Use high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture.

Utensils:

• 9×13 inch baking pan – the perfect size for these bars.
• Large bowls (at least two) – for mixing the crust and filling.
• Pastry blender or your fingers – for cutting the butter into the flour.
• Fork – for pricking the bottom of the crust.
• Whisk – for mixing the filling ingredients.
• Spatula or spoon – for spreading the filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements.
• Parchment paper (optional) – makes cleanup easier.
• Toothpick – for testing the doneness of the bars.
• Cooling rack – for cooling the bars completely.

Having these ingredients and utensils readily available will ensure a smooth and enjoyable baking process. Remember to always check your ingredients before you start baking, and always measure accurately for the best results. Investing in a good quality pastry blender will make the crust-making process much easier.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Pecan Pie Bars

Let’s get baking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create irresistible Pecan Pie Bars.

1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Ensure they’re well combined. Now, add the chilled, cubed butter. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Tip: Work quickly to keep the butter cold. The colder the butter, the flakier your crust will be. Gradually add the ice water, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Important: Do not overmix the dough. Overmixing will develop the gluten, resulting in a tough crust.
2. Press into Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleanup. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches the corners and edges. Use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork several times to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
3. Make the Filling: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, light corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Tip: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for a better emulsion. Stir in the pecan halves until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
4. Pour over Crust: Carefully pour the pecan filling evenly over the prepared crust. Spread it out to ensure an even layer.
5. Bake: Bake the Pecan Pie Bars for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter. Tip: Keep a close eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking, as they can burn quickly. If the edges are browning too quickly, cover the pan loosely with foil.
6. Cool: Remove the pan from the oven and let the Pecan Pie Bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents the bars from crumbling. Once cooled, you can transfer them to a wire rack or serving platter.

Following these steps carefully will result in perfectly baked Pecan Pie Bars. Remember that oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your bars while they bake and adjust baking time as needed. Allowing them to cool completely is key to achieving the perfect texture. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious outcome!

Tips and Variations for Pecan Pie Bars

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are several ways to personalize it to your liking. Explore these tips and variations to elevate your Pecan Pie Bars to the next level!

Tips for Success:

• Cold butter is key: Using cold butter in the crust is essential for achieving a flaky texture. Ensure your butter is well-chilled before incorporating it into the flour.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Overmixing the crust dough develops gluten, making it tough. Mix only until the dough just comes together.
• Evenly distribute the pecans: Make sure the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the filling for consistent flavor and texture in every bite.
• Check for doneness: Use the toothpick test to ensure the filling is fully set. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
• Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This prevents them from crumbling and allows the filling to set properly.

Variations:

• Add chocolate: Incorporate 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips into the filling for a delightful chocolate-pecan combination.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the filling for a warm, comforting twist.
• Nutty variations: Experiment with other nuts, such as walnuts, hazelnuts, or a mix of pecans and walnuts, for a unique flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
• Vegan adaptation: Replace the butter with vegan butter and the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) or applesauce.

These tips and variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your preferences and dietary needs, ensuring a uniquely delicious experience every time. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Pecan Pie Bars

While Pecan Pie Bars are undeniably indulgent, it’s helpful to understand their nutritional content and the benefits of some key ingredients.

Note: The following nutritional information is an approximation and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients.

A typical Pecan Pie Bar (approximately 1/12 of a 9×13 inch pan) might contain roughly:

• Calories: 300-350
• Protein: 3-4g
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 35-40g
• Sugar: 20-25g

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Pecans: Excellent source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. They also contain beneficial minerals like manganese and magnesium.
• Eggs: Rich in protein and essential nutrients like choline, which is important for brain health.
• Butter: Provides flavor and texture, but should be consumed in moderation.

Enjoy Pecan Pie Bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional value can be enhanced by using whole wheat flour in the crust or reducing the amount of sugar in the filling.

FAQs about Pecan Pie Bars

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Pecan Pie Bars!

These Pecan Pie Bars are a true testament to the fact that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a show-stopping treat that will impress your friends, family, and most importantly, yourself! Remember to follow the tips, explore the variations, and enjoy the process. Don’t forget to let us know in the comments how your Pecan Pie Bars turned out! Share your photos on social media using #PecanPieBars and tag us! For more delicious recipe ideas, check out our other recipes on our website, like our amazing 3-Ingredient Sausage Cream Cheese Dip for a perfect appetizer pairing! Happy baking!

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Easy Pecan Pie Bars

These delicious pecan pie bars are a simple twist on a classic dessert, perfect for any occasion. The buttery crust and rich pecan filling make them irresistible!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 12 bars

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Crust Ingredients

• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 cup (1 stick) Unsalted butter, chilled Cut into cubes
• 0.25 cup Ice water

Filling Ingredients

• 1 cup Granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup Packed light brown sugar
• 0.25 cup Light corn syrup
• 0.25 cup Unsalted butter, melted
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 2 cups Pecans halves

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking pan
• Pastry blender or fork
• Mixing Bowls
• Whisk

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. Make the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix.
3. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork several times.
4. Make the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Stir in the pecans.
5. Pour the pecan filling evenly over the prepared crust.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.
7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This will allow the filling to set properly.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use dark corn syrup. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling. Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.