Best Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
If there is one dessert that perfectly balances rich sweetness with a satisfying crunch, it has to be the Best Pecan Pie Bars Recipe. Imagine all the indulgent, buttery goodness of classic pecan pie, but transformed into a convenient bar that’s easier to slice, serve, and share with a crowd. These bars boast a tender, buttery crust topped with a luscious, gooey filling packed full of toasted pecans that add depth and texture. Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering, potluck, or just because, they deliver that cozy, nostalgic feeling of homemade comfort with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the flaky all-purpose flour crust to the molasses-rich corn syrup that creates that iconic pecan pie filling shine, every component is essential.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the sturdy yet tender crust foundation that holds everything together.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust, balancing the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavor by cutting through the sweetness in both crust and filling.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: The cold butter creates a flaky texture in the crust when baked.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes to the filling, making it irresistibly rich.
- 1/2 cup corn syrup: The secret to that beautifully soft, sticky filling that holds the pecans together.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the filling ingredients smoothly.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and set the filling so it doesn’t ooze out when sliced.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the bars with warm, aromatic notes that amplify every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweet filling flavors perfectly.
- 2 cups pecan halves (lightly toasted if desired): Offers that signature crunch and nutty flavor essential to any pecan bar.
How to Make Best Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. This crust will bake into a firm, buttery base that supports the filling without becoming soggy.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown. This step ensures your crust has that perfect bite and prevents it from getting soggy once the filling goes on top.
Step 3: Make the Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl until smooth and glossy. This mixture will create the rich, gooey texture that makes pecan pie bars so irresistible.
Step 4: Add the Pecans
Fold in the pecan halves gently to coat them evenly with the filling mixture. Toasting the pecans beforehand is optional but highly recommended—it intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a deeper dimension.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Once the crust is ready, pour the pecan filling evenly over it. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. This careful timing keeps the bars moist and tender without drying them out.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing. This cooling period is crucial as it allows the filling to firm up, making clean bar-shaped pieces easier to serve and enjoy.
How to Serve Best Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, top your pecan pie bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the bars, adding a luxurious finish that complements the nutty filling beautifully.
Side Dishes
These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a simple cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. Their rich texture and sweet depth stand up well to the coolness of ice cream, creating a classic dessert combo that always pleases.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve the bars on a rustic wooden board adorned with whole pecans and cinnamon sticks for a warm, seasonal vibe. You can also cut the bars into smaller bite-sized pieces for a party platter or layer them between parchment paper for a pretty homemade gift presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. This ensures they stay moist and flavorful without drying out or becoming too soft.
Freezing
If you’d like to save them longer, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To bring back the freshly baked feel, warm bars in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat as this can dry them out. A quick zap in the microwave for about 15 seconds also works when you’re in a hurry.
FAQs
Can I use light corn syrup instead of dark corn syrup?
Yes, light corn syrup works perfectly here and will slightly lessen the deep molasses flavor but still create that gooey filling texture.
Do I have to toast the pecans before adding them?
Toasting the pecans is optional but highly recommended as it enhances their natural nuttiness and provides a richer flavor in the bars.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup for regular flour. The texture might be a bit different but still delicious.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Baking the crust before adding the filling is key. Also, letting the bars cool completely allows the filling to set without seeping into the crust too much.
Can these bars be made ahead for holiday parties?
Definitely! You can bake these bars a day or two ahead, store them well, and serve at room temperature or slightly warmed for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about the way the Best Pecan Pie Bars Recipe captures the essence of pecan pie in an easy-to-share format. Whether you’re indulging at a family dinner or bringing them to a festive gathering, these bars are guaranteed to become a new favorite. So go ahead, give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why they earn the title of best pecan pie bars!
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Best Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Description
These Best Pecan Pie Bars combine the classic flavors of pecan pie in a convenient bar form. A buttery, crumbly crust topped with a rich, gooey pecan filling delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Ideal for dessert or snack, these bars are easy to make and perfect for sharing at gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Filling
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups pecan halves (lightly toasted if desired)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan to form a firm base.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it is just beginning to set and slightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth and fully combined. Stir in the pecan halves ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into 16 squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Notes
- Lightly toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and crunch but is optional.
- Make sure butter for the crust is cold to achieve a flaky texture.
- Bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a richer flavor, you can substitute dark corn syrup, but light corn syrup is traditional.
- If you prefer, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a spiced variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
