Easy Pecan Pie Bars

Decadent Pecan Pie Bars Recipe – A Sweet, Nutty Delight

If you’re a fan of traditional pecan pie but want something that’s easier to prepare and serve, Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect treat! These bars capture the sweet, nutty essence of pecan pie, with a buttery crust and a luscious caramel-like filling topped with crunchy pecans. They’re versatile, portable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for holidays, parties, or just as a delicious homemade dessert, these pecan pie bars provide a rich, indulgent flavor in every bite. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to create this delightful dessert, including the prep time, step-by-step instructions, and tips for achieving the perfect bar.

Preparation Time

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Bake Time: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing a bit of overhang on the sides to help lift the bars out later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Whisk these ingredients until well-blended.
3. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should be well-incorporated but still visible in tiny pieces.
4. Add Egg Yolk and Ice Water: Add the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of ice water to the mixture. Stir until it starts to form a dough. If the dough is too dry, add an additional tablespoon of ice water.
5. Press into the Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, creating a solid layer for the crust.
6. Bake: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
2. Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling mixture.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour Filling Over Crust: Once the crust has slightly cooled, pour the pecan filling over the top, spreading it out evenly to cover the crust.
2. Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden around the edges.
3. Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. This will help them set and hold their shape when you cut them.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

1. Remove and Slice: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares.
2. Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the bars on a serving platter. These pecan pie bars are best enjoyed at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Tips 

• Chill the Butter for the Crust: Using cold butter is essential for creating a flaky, tender crust. This helps the butter pieces create pockets in the dough, resulting in a light texture.
• Use Fresh Pecans: Pecans add a crunchy texture and rich flavor, so choose fresh, high-quality pecans for the best result.
• Allow Cooling Time: Patience is key! Let the bars cool completely before slicing. This helps them firm up, making them easier to cut and serve.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store the bars in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week at room temperature or longer in the refrigerator.

These easy pecan pie bars offer all the beloved flavors of pecan pie with a simpler preparation. Their buttery, flaky crust combined with a gooey, nutty filling is the perfect blend of textures and tastes. They’re not only easier to serve than traditional pie but also ideal for gatherings or simply treating yourself to a comforting dessert. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or a casual gathering, pecan pie bars are a timeless choice that will surely please any crowd. Enjoy this rich and nutty dessert, and don’t be surprised if it quickly becomes a family favorite!