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
Scale
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
