Introduction
Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering all the rich, nutty flavors in a handheld bar. These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and crunchy. With a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey pecan filling, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Follow these simple steps to create delicious pecan pie bars in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped or halved, depending on preference
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper, making sure there’s enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color. This step is essential to ensure that the crust holds up under the gooey pecan filling. Once done, set the crust aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. Add the corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Step 5: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the pecan filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Once the bars are baked, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish. For the best results, refrigerate the bars for at least an hour before slicing. This will make them easier to cut and help the filling set further. Once chilled, lift the bars out of the dish using the parchment overhang and slice into squares or rectangles.
Tips for the Perfect Pecan Pie Bars
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best crust texture, make sure your butter is at room temperature. This will help create a tender, crumbly base.
- Don’t Overbake the Crust: Keep an eye on the crust while it bakes; overbaking can lead to a hard, crumbly crust. It should be just lightly golden when you take it out.
- Chill Before Slicing: Allowing the bars to cool completely, ideally in the refrigerator, will make slicing much easier and prevent the filling from oozing out.
- Customize Your Nuts: If you prefer a more rustic look, use halved pecans instead of chopped ones for a beautiful topping. You can also mix in a few other nuts for added flavor and texture.
- Store Properly: These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
Pecan pie bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with a few simple serving ideas:
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warmed pecan bar is a classic combination that balances the sweetness and adds creaminess.
- With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter topping that complements the nutty, caramel flavors.
- With a Drizzle of Chocolate: For chocolate lovers, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the bars for an extra layer of indulgence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pecan pie bars without corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute the corn syrup with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious.
Are these bars gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour for the crust, so it’s not gluten-free as written. However, you can make a gluten-free version by substituting a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for the all-purpose flour.
Can I make these bars in advance?
Absolutely! Pecan pie bars can be made up to two days in advance. Store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh, and bring them to room temperature before serving if desired.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, if you’re making these for a large gathering, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking pan, such as a 15×10-inch pan. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly, so keep an eye on the bars as they bake.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 24g
Final Thoughts
Pecan pie bars are a fantastic option for anyone who loves the flavor of pecan pie but prefers a more portable treat. With a buttery crust and a sweet, nutty filling, these bars offer everything you love about the traditional dessert in a convenient, bite-sized form. Whether for Thanksgiving, a holiday party, or a weekend treat, these pecan pie bars are sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this recipe, and savor each delicious bite!