These pecan pie bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a gooey, nutty pecan filling, offering all the flavors of traditional pecan pie in an easy-to-serve bar form. The combination of crunchy pecans and a rich, syrupy filling makes these bars a perfect dessert for any occasion. The shortbread crust is slightly sweet and buttery, providing a perfect base for the sticky, golden pecan topping.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12-16 servings
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (300 g)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (150 g)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted (170 g)
For the Topping:
- 4 large eggs
- 1½ cups dark or light corn syrup (360 mL)
- ⅔ cup packed brown sugar (140 g)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour (40 g)
- 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped (240 g)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray and line it with parchment paper or foil for easy removal. - Make the Crust:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Drizzle in the melted butter and stir with a fork. Use your hands to knead the dough together (it will be crumbly). Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. - Bake the Crust:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. While the crust bakes, prepare the topping. - Prepare the Topping:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Sift in the flour and whisk to combine. Add the chopped pecans and mix well. - Assemble and Bake:
Once the crust is done, pour the pecan pie filling over the crust. Smooth out the pecans and bake for another 30 minutes or until the topping is puffed and dry. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the bars to cool completely. Once cooled, chill slightly to set the filling before cutting into clean pieces.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent touch.
- Serve with a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Serve with fresh berries for a burst of color and freshness.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure the crust is evenly pressed into the pan to ensure a consistent bake.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing to avoid the filling from running.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, bake it a little longer, but be careful not to overbake.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Pecans are rich in healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which support heart health.
- This dessert provides a good source of protein, thanks to the eggs and pecans.
- The brown sugar and syrup contribute to the sweet flavor, but you can substitute with alternatives for a lighter version.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian
- High in healthy fats
- Contains nuts (pecans)
- Not gluten-free (contains flour)
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 20 g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap in plastic wrap and foil for best results.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- These pecan pie bars are an easy-to-make version of the classic pecan pie, perfect for anyone who loves pecans.
- The combination of the buttery shortbread crust and the gooey, sweet filling is irresistibly delicious.
- They are great for a holiday dessert, party treat, or a cozy weekend snack.
- These bars are easy to slice into perfect portions, making them great for sharing.
Conclusion:
These pecan pie bars combine the rich flavors of a traditional pecan pie with the convenience of a bar, offering a delicious dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing. The buttery shortbread crust is the ideal base for the sweet and crunchy pecan topping, making every bite a treat. These bars are a must-try for anyone who loves pecans or is looking for a fun twist on classic desserts. They’re perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just a sweet snack to enjoy with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use a different type of nut for these bars?
Yes, you can substitute the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or a combination of your favorite nuts. - Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars store well. You can make them up to 2-3 days ahead and store them at room temperature in an airtight container. - Can I freeze pecan pie bars?
Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving. - Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free. - Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?
While you can substitute maple syrup for corn syrup, the texture may change slightly. Corn syrup provides a glossy, smooth finish. - Can I add chocolate chips to the topping?
Yes, you can stir in chocolate chips or even drizzle melted chocolate on top for added flavor. - How do I make sure my crust doesn’t get soggy?
Make sure to bake the crust long enough until the edges are golden and it has set. A pre-baked crust prevents sogginess. - Can I use a different pan size?
If you use a different pan, adjust the baking time. A smaller pan will require longer baking, while a larger pan will reduce the time. - Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, this recipe contains butter. For a dairy-free version, you can use dairy-free butter or margarine as a substitute. - Can I use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but it will affect the flavor slightly. Brown sugar gives a richer, deeper flavor.