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If you’ve been hunting for a dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust with the rich, nutty, and caramel-sweet goodness of pecan pie, then you are going to love this Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on the traditional pecan pie that’s easier to handle, perfect for sharing, and loaded with that gooey, crunchy magic everyone adores. Once you try these bars, they’ll quickly become your go-to sweet treat for holidays, potlucks, or any moment when you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly essentials that beautifully balance each other to create the perfect texture and flavor. Each element plays a critical role: the butter gives richness, the sugars provide sweetness and caramel notes, and the pecans add that heartwarming crunch.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): This is the foundation of the crust, offering a rich and tender texture.
- Granulated sugar (2/3 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create the crumbly crust texture.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): Gives structure to the crust, keeping the bars firm yet tender.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch to balance sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Brings deep molasses notes to the filling for that classic pecan pie flavor.
- Light corn syrup (1/2 cup): Adds that signature sticky, glossy finish and chewy texture.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the filling creamy and smooth.
- Large eggs (3): Help to bind the filling and create the perfect custard-like consistency.
- Unsalted butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Enriches the filling with extra buttery flavor.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the sweetness with warm hints of vanilla.
- Chopped pecans (2 cups): The star ingredient, giving these bars their irresistible crunch and distinct nutty flavor.
How to Make Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to make sure it’s ready to go when your crust and filling are prepared. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides—this little trick will make lifting the bars out a breeze later on and help with clean, neat slices.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it traps air, creating a tender crust. Then add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined. Press this buttery dough evenly into the bottom of the lined pan, setting the stage for that perfect base layer.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until it turns a warm golden color, signaling that it’s firm but still tender. Remove from the oven and let it cool just slightly while you prepare the decadent pecan filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This mixture is the rich, sweet canvas for the chopped pecans. Stir the pecans in gently, distributing them evenly so every bar will have that perfect nutty burst.
Step 5: Bake the Pie Bars
Pour the luscious filling over the slightly cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the filling is set and beautifully golden on top. This part requires a little patience because you want that perfect gooey center without it being too runny.
Step 6: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy
Allow the bars to cool completely right in the pan, which lets the filling firm up so clean pieces can be cut. Use the parchment overhang to lift the entire slab out, then slice into 16 squares. Serve these bars as-is or dress them up a bit—you’re about to become everyone’s dessert hero.
How to Serve Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Top these bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add a creamy contrast to their rich sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar also looks lovely and adds a gentle sweetness that complements the pecans beautifully.
Side Dishes
A simple cup of coffee or a rich cup of hot tea pairs exceptionally well with these bars. If serving for a festive occasion, consider fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears on the side to balance the indulgence with a fruity freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange pecan pie bars on a tiered dessert tray at a party or drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over the top for an elegant touch. You can also sandwich a thin layer of cream cheese frosting between two bars for a decadent treat that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate them to keep the filling firm and fresh. The flavors actually deepen as the bars rest, making them even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep these bars longer, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They freeze beautifully and can be kept for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy warm bars, pop individual pieces in the microwave for about 15 seconds. Alternatively, reheat the whole pan (if oven-safe) at 300°F for 10 minutes for that fresh-baked feel. Just be careful not to overheat, or the filling may become too runny.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can swap or mix in walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a unique twist. Just be sure to chop them finely for even distribution.
Is it necessary to use corn syrup in the filling?
Corn syrup gives that classic sticky texture to pecan pie filling, but if you prefer, you can substitute with an equal amount of maple syrup or honey. The flavor will shift slightly, but your bars will still be delicious.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can create a gluten-free version. Just make sure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure.
How do I know when the filling is done baking?
The filling should be set and slightly jiggly in the very center when you gently shake the pan. It will firm up completely as it cools, so avoid overbaking to keep that perfect gooey texture.
Can I prepare the crust and filling ahead of time?
You can prepare and bake the crust a day in advance, then refrigerate it until ready to add the filling and bake. The filling is best prepared just before baking for optimal texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something undeniably comforting about this Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of buttery crust, gooey filling, and crunchy pecans in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you deserve a sweet treat, these bars will not disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try them and share the joy with friends and family—it’s truly a dessert that brings people together.
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Print
Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars combine a buttery, golden crust with a rich and gooey pecan filling, creating a delightful treat perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence any time. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, these bars offer the classic flavors of pecan pie in a convenient bar form.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal of the bars later.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until fluffy. Add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing until just combined to form the crust dough. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the crust: Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until it turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
- Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the packed brown sugar, light corn syrup, heavy cream, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. Stir in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the filling mixture.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the slightly cooled crust. Spread it out to cover the entire surface. Bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes or until the filling is set and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove the baking pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 16 bars and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the crust is slightly cooled before adding the filling to prevent it from mixing.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal of the bars from the pan.
- Let bars cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before stirring into the filling if desired.
