Pecan Pie Bars

The Pecan Pie Bars recipe brings together the rich flavors of pecans with a buttery shortbread base. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a sweet treat, these bars offer a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie. With an easy one-bowl topping mix, you can whip these up in no time. Their chewy texture and nutty flavor make them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort and just one bowl for the topping, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and corn syrup creates a sweet, caramel-like filling that pairs beautifully with crunchy pecans.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for any occasion—these bars are great for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday celebrations.
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and chilled, making them a convenient dessert to serve when needed.
• Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or other nuts to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Pecan Pie Bars efficiently, gather your kitchen tools beforehand. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp serrated knife

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 baking pan: This size is perfect for baking the bars evenly and ensures they cut neatly after cooling.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls helps keep your ingredients organized and prevents mixing mistakes.
• Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into the batter, giving it a lighter texture.
• Sharp serrated knife: Ideal for cutting through the nutty layer without crushing it, ensuring clean slices.

Ingredients

The Best Pecan Pie Bars – this easy recipe includes a simple shortbread bottom and a one bowl mix and pour topping.

Ingredients:
– ⅔ cup firmly packed brown sugar
– ⅓ cup +1 tbsp flour
– 4 large or extra large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– ½ tsp salt
– 1½ cups corn syrup, dark is best
– 2 cups roughly chopped pecans, no need to toast the pecans
– 1¾ cups all purpose flour
– ½ cup sugar
– ¾ cup cold butter

How to Make Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan

1. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking pan.
2. Line the pan with parchment paper to help lift out the bars easily once baked.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F if using aluminum bakeware or 325 degrees F for glass bakeware.

Step 3: Make the Shortbread Base

1. In a bowl, mix together 1¾ cups flour and ½ cup sugar.
2. Rub in ¾ cup cold butter until well combined; it should resemble coarse meal.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes until edges start to brown lightly.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping Mixture

1. In another bowl, combine ⅓ cup +1 tbsp flour, ⅔ cup brown sugar, whisking well to remove lumps.
2. Add in 4 eggs, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, ½ tsp salt, and 1½ cups corn syrup. Mix until smooth.

Step 5: Combine with Pecans

Let the mixture stand for about 15 minutes while your base bakes. Stir occasionally to allow flour to soften.
Then mix in 2 cups chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake Again

Pour this topping over the partially baked crust immediately after removing it from the oven.
Return to bake for an additional 40–50 minutes until set but still slightly wobbly in the center.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Allow the pan to cool at room temperature before chilling in the fridge for several hours or overnight.
Once cooled completely, lift out using parchment paper. Cut into smaller bars using a sharp serrated knife for neat slices.

Enjoy your homemade Pecan Pie Bars!

How to Serve Pecan Pie Bars

Serving Pecan Pie Bars can be a delightful experience, enhancing their rich flavors with complementary options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy these tasty treats.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the bars.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that adds a refreshing and cool element.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce gives an extra layer of sweetness and richness, perfect for those who love indulgence.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Pair your bars with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to add a pop of color and freshness to the plate.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying these bars alongside a cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy dessert experience, perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

How to Perfect Pecan Pie Bars

To achieve the best Pecan Pie Bars, follow these tips to ensure your dessert is perfectly baked and full of flavor.

• Use room temperature eggs: This helps create a smoother filling and better texture in your bars.

• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; the center should have a slight wobble but not be runny when you take it out.

• Cool completely before cutting: Allowing the bars to cool entirely ensures cleaner cuts and better presentation.

• Store properly: Keeping them in an airtight container in the fridge will maintain freshness and flavor longer.

• Experiment with pecans: Try mixing in different types of nuts for unique flavors or textures if you want to mix things up!

Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Bars

When serving Pecan Pie Bars, consider these delightful side dishes that complement their rich flavors wonderfully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and acidity, balancing the sweetness of the bars.

2. Creamy Coleslaw: The crunch and tang from coleslaw provide contrast, making it an interesting pairing with the dessert.

3. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese; their creaminess pairs nicely with pecans’ nuttiness.

4. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can enhance fall flavors, making it a comforting side during holidays.

5. Cranberry Sauce: The tartness from cranberry sauce cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing side option.

6. Chocolate Mousse: For chocolate lovers, this light yet rich dessert complements pecan pie bars beautifully without overwhelming them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pecan Pie Bars, avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in the final product.

• Boldly skip pre-baking: Not pre-baking the shortbread crust can lead to a soggy bottom. Always bake the crust until it begins to brown for a firm base.
• Boldly neglect cooling time: Cutting the bars before they are fully cooled can result in a messy presentation. Allow them to cool completely in the fridge for better slicing.
• Boldly overlook mixing well: Failing to mix the flour and brown sugar thoroughly can leave lumps. Be sure to whisk these ingredients together to ensure a smooth topping.
• Boldly ignore oven temperatures: Every oven varies, and baking times may differ based on your equipment. Always check your bars periodically as they bake to avoid overcooking.
• Boldly forget about chopped pecans: Adding chopped pecans too early can affect their texture. Mix them in right before pouring the topping onto the crust.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pecan Pie Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Pecan Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the bars for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds per bar, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pecan Pie Bars that might help you out.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I know when my Pecan Pie Bars are done?

The filling should be set but slightly wobbly in the center when you shake the pan. It should not be runny.

Can I add chocolate chips to my Pecan Pie Bars?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips can add a delightful twist. Just fold them into the mixture along with the pecans before pouring over the crust.

What is the best way to cut Pecan Pie Bars?

Use a sharp serrated knife and saw gently through each layer. Cutting them cold from the fridge helps achieve clean slices.

How long do leftovers last?

Pecan Pie Bars will stay fresh in an airtight container for up to one week in the refrigerator or three months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Their versatility allows for customization, whether by adding chocolate or using different nuts. Give this recipe a try at your next gathering, and enjoy these delightful treats!