Description
These Easy Pecan Pie Bars combine a buttery, tender crust with a rich, gooey pecan filling for a delicious twist on traditional pecan pie. Perfect for casual gatherings or holiday desserts, they are simple to prepare and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fingers to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake the Crust: Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan to create a firm, even layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow it to cool while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Add Pecans and Assemble: Stir the pecan halves or chopped pecans into the filling mixture. Pour this filling evenly over the pre-baked crust and spread it out smoothly.
- Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown around the edges. Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan.
- Serve: Once cool, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, slice into squares, and serve as a delightful treat.
Notes
- Use cold butter for the crust to achieve a flaky, tender base.
- Make sure to cool the crust before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Adjust pecan size according to preference; halves provide more texture while chopped pecans distribute flavor evenly.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
- For a nut-free alternative, substitute pecans with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
