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Simple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

4.7 from 138 reviews

These Simple Pecan Pie Bars combine the classic flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-cut bar form. A buttery, crumbly crust topped with a rich, gooey pecan filling makes for a perfect dessert or snack. Easy to prepare and bake, they’re ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Filling

  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the bars come out easily after baking.
  2. Prepare the crust mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture becomes crumbly, resembling coarse crumbs.
  3. Bake the crust: Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the crust turns lightly golden brown.
  4. Make the filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
  5. Add pecans: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture, ensuring they are well distributed.
  6. Combine and spread: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the hot, baked crust. Spread it gently with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
  7. Bake the bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan.
  8. Cool the bars: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For cleaner, easier slices, refrigerate for about an hour before cutting.
  9. Serve and enjoy: Cut into bars and serve chilled or at room temperature for a delicious pecan pie experience in bar form.

Notes

  • Using cold butter helps achieve a crumbly, tender crust.
  • Refrigerating before cutting prevents the filling from sticking and helps get neat slices.
  • You can substitute light corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile, though texture may vary slightly.
  • Store leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Allow bars to come to room temperature before serving if refrigerated for best flavor and texture.

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