Looking for a sweet treat that’s as easy as it is irresistible? These Simple Pecan Pie Bars bring all the richness of a classic pecan pie into bite-sized squares that are perfect for sharing. Featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey caramel-like filling topped with crunchy pecans, this is one of the best quick desserts for gatherings, holiday dinners, or cozy nights at home. Whether you need a quick breakfast bite, easy dinner dessert, or just fresh food ideas, these bars will become your go-to favorite. A truly easy recipe for anyone craving a classic taste with minimal effort.
Simple Pecan Pie Bars not only appeal to your sweet tooth but also offer an efficient way to enjoy a classic dessert without getting caught up in the intricacies of traditional pie-making. These bars capture that beloved pecan pie flavor, making them a delightful treat at any time of day. You’ll find them satisfying for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just as a sweet indulgence for yourself. With their rich flavor and easy-to-follow recipe, it’s no wonder they have become an all-time favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Simple Pecan Pie Bars
- Easy to make and perfect for all skill levels – no baking experience needed.
- Rich, buttery flavor from the shortbread crust complements the sweet pecan filling perfectly.
- Ideal for sharing during holidays, parties, or cozy nights in.
- Versatile enough to serve at any occasion, from brunch to after-dinner dessert.
- Can be prepared ahead of time and stored for days without losing freshness.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into making your Simple Pecan Pie Bars, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all necessary tools. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a properly cooked crust and filling. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper; this will make it easier to remove the bars after baking. Make sure to have a large mixing bowl for your crust and another for the filling. A whisk can help combine the filling ingredients efficiently, while a fork or pastry cutter is useful for blending the butter into the flour. Lastly, a wire rack will assist you in cooling the bars evenly.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut the cold, cubed butter into this dry mixture using a pastry cutter or a fork until it resembles coarse crumbs. This mixture will serve as the base of your bars. Once it’s ready, press it evenly into the bottom of your lined baking pan, ensuring you cover the entire bottom surface. Bake this crust in your preheated oven for approximately 18–20 minutes, or until it turns a light golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Filling
As the crust bakes, you can focus on creating that luscious pecan filling. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a small pinch of salt until the mixture is fully combined and smooth. This step is crucial as it determines the sweetness and overall flavor of the bars. Once combined, gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
When the crust is finished baking, carefully take it out of the oven. Immediately pour the pecan filling mixture over the hot crust, spreading it evenly using a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30–35 minutes. Keep an eye on the bars; they should be set in the middle and have a golden top when they are done. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about two hours.
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding crispy bacon bits to the pecan filling for a surprising sweet and savory twist.
- Vegetables: For a healthy twist, you can mix in some finely chopped spinach or kale; this not only adds nutrients but also creates a nice texture contrast.
- Spices: Experiment with cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling for an additional layer of flavor. A touch of sea salt on top right before baking can also enhance the sweetness.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your butter is cold for the crust to achieve the right flaky texture.
- Don’t rush the cooling process; letting the bars cool completely in the pan allows the filling to set up properly.
- When slicing, use a sharp knife to get clean edges and avoid sticking, which can happen with a regular kitchen knife.
- If you plan to serve these bars later, it’s best to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat that’s sure to impress.
Tips
- For added crunch, consider toasting the pecans lightly before mixing them into the filling.
- If you prefer, you can substitute the granulated sugar with honey to enhance the flavor profile.
- These bars can also be frozen; simply wrap them in plastic wrap and foil for later enjoyment.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours (including cooling time)
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 180 per bar
- Protein: 2 grams
- Sodium: 50 milligrams
FAQs
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare these bars a day in advance. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
What can I use instead of corn syrup?
You can substitute corn syrup with maple syrup or agave syrup for a different flavor profile, but note it may change the texture slightly.
How should I store leftover bars?
Leftover bars can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or in the freezer for up to three months.
Can I customize the nuts used in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor slightly!
Conclusion
These Simple Pecan Pie Bars are truly a delightful addition to any dessert table or family gathering. Their simplicity and rich flavor make them the perfect treat for everyone, from kids to adults. So why not give this recipe a try? You’ll find that not only are they easy to whip up, but they also provide a satisfying and indulgent way to enjoy a classic dessert. We’d love to hear how your bars turned out! Feel free to share your results or any variations you tried in the comments below. Happy baking!
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Simple Pecan Pie Bars
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
Description
These Simple Pecan Pie Bars bring all the richness of a classic pecan pie into bite-sized squares.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut the cold, cubed butter into this dry mixture using a pastry cutter or a fork until it resembles coarse crumbs. Press it evenly into the bottom of your lined baking pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until light golden brown.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan filling mixture over the hot crust, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack for about two hours.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Protein: 2 g