Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Pecan Pie Bars Recipe: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Dessert
Who can resist the gooey goodness of a classic pecan pie? Now imagine that indulgence in a convenient, portable bar form—introducing pecan pie bars! These rich, buttery bars offer all the flavors of a traditional pecan pie but with an easy-to-make crust and a layer of sticky-sweet pecan filling. Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a sweet treat any time of the year, these bars will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe will guide you through creating a dessert that’s sure to impress.
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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Pecan Pie Bars
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Overmixing the Crust
Overworking the crust can result in a tough, hard base. Make sure to mix the ingredients just until they form a crumbly texture. Press it evenly into the pan for the perfect foundation. -
Not Pre-Baking the Crust
Skipping the pre-baking step often leads to a soggy bottom. Always pre-bake the crust to ensure it’s firm and flaky before adding the filling. -
Undercooking the Filling
If the filling is undercooked, the bars will be runny and difficult to slice. Bake until the center is set but still slightly jiggly to avoid this issue. -
Cutting Too Soon
Patience is key! Cutting the bars while they’re still warm can cause them to crumble. Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. -
Using Whole Pecans
Chop your pecans to ensure even distribution throughout the bars. This gives you the perfect balance of crunch and gooey filling. Whole pecans can create uneven layers and make the bars harder to eat.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect pecan pie bars every time!
Pecan Pie Bars Like a Pro: Because You’re Not Here to Make Amateur Dessert
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Add Some Chocolate Love
Feeling extra indulgent? Mix in some dark chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a rich, chocolaty surprise. Your taste buds will thank you—and so will anyone you share these with (if you decide to share). -
Salted Caramel Drizzle
Take your pecan pie bars to the next level with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce on top. This addition will have people thinking you’ve got a secret baking degree (we won’t tell them otherwise). -
Gluten-Free Goodness
Want to make these for your gluten-sensitive friends? Just swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and you’ve got pecan pie bars everyone can enjoy—no one will even notice the difference. -
Bourbon-Infused Bars
Kick things up a notch by adding a tablespoon or two of bourbon to the pecan filling. The subtle smoky flavor will have your guests feeling fancy, even if they’re just enjoying these in their sweatpants. -
Coconut Craze
For a tropical twist, sprinkle some shredded coconut over the filling before baking. It adds a bit of texture and an unexpected flavor that pairs surprisingly well with the pecans. -
Nutty Friends Welcome
If you’re not strictly team pecan, feel free to mix in some walnuts or almonds. Go nuts (literally) and make your bars a nutty celebration of crunchy goodness.
With these variations, you’ll be the reigning dessert champ at any gathering—because plain pecan pie bars are so last season!
Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Equipment
- 9x13-inch Baking Pan: To bake the bars.
- Mixing Bowls: For mixing the crust and the filling ingredients.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork: To cut the butter into the flour for the crust.
- Whisk: To mix the filling ingredients thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out the ingredients accurately.
- Spatula or Spoon: For spreading the crust and the filling evenly.
- Parchment Paper (optional): For lining the baking pan to prevent sticking and for easy removal of the bars.
- Cooling Rack: To allow the bars to cool after baking.
- Knife: For cutting the bars into squares once cooled.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 Cups All-purpose flour
- 1/2 Cup Granulated sugar
- 1 Cup Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 Tsp Salt
For the Filling:
- 1 Cup Light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 Cup Light corn syrup
- 1/4 Cup Unsalted butter, melted
- 3 Large eggs
- 1 Tsp Pure vanilla extract
- 2 Cups Pecans, roughly chopped
- 1/4 Tsp Salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the CrustPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it covers the bottom of the dish entirely.Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool while you prepare the filling.
- Step 2: Make the Pecan FillingIn a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.Stir in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Step 3: Bake the Pecan Pie BarsReturn the baking dish to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly jiggly in the center.Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares or rectangles.
- Step 4: Serve and EnjoyOnce the bars are fully cooled, slice them into bite-sized pieces. They pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
Bringing Sweet Moments to Your Table
There’s something truly special about homemade treats that bring people together, and these pecan pie bars are no exception. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just as a sweet reward after a long day, each bite is filled with warmth and nostalgia. The rich, buttery crust paired with the gooey pecan filling is sure to create smiles all around. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy these delightful bars with the ones you love. Don’t forget to share your experience and join our community of bakers at Satisfy Your Cravings!