If you love pecan pie, these pecan pie bars are a must make treat! These bite-sized desserts are the perfect thing to bring to a party!
The pecan pie enthusiast in your family is going to love these Pecan Pie Bars. And you are going to love how easy they are to make. Honestly, what’s better than all of the traditional flavors of the classic pie without all the fuss? Plus it is actually acceptable to eat this ‘pie’ with your hands. So skip all the fuss, forego tradition and enjoy these Pecan Pie Bars for Thanksgiving this year!
Ingredients
scroll down for full recipe with exact measurements
Ingredients and Substitutions
- Butter: Butter is a crucial ingredient in pecan pie bars. It is used in the crust to create a rich and buttery base. The butter is combined with flour and sometimes brown sugar to form a crumbly and flavorful crust that holds the bars together.
- Flour: Flour is used in both the crust and filling of pecan pie bars. In the crust, it helps provide structure and bind the ingredients together. In the filling, a small amount of flour is added to help thicken the mixture and give the bars a cohesive texture when baked.
- Brown sugar: Brown sugar is a key sweetener in pecan pie bars. It adds a rich and caramel-like flavor that complements the pecans perfectly. Brown sugar is used in both the crust and filling, providing sweetness and enhancing the overall taste of the bars. You can use light brown or dark brown sugar.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a delightful spice used in pecan pie bars to add warmth and depth of flavor. It is typically included in the crust or sometimes sprinkled on top of the filling for an extra hint of aromatic goodness.
- Light corn syrup: Corn syrup is an essential ingredient in pecan pie bars. It contributes to the gooey and sweet texture of the filling. Light corn syrup is typically used, as it provides the desired consistency without overpowering the other flavors.
- Brown sugar: Additional brown sugar is used in the filling to enhance the sweetness and add a caramel-like richness. It works hand-in-hand with the corn syrup to create a delectable filling that holds the pecans together.
- Eggs: Eggs are a crucial binding agent in the filling of pecan pie bars. They help set the filling as it bakes, giving it a firm yet smooth texture. Eggs also contribute to the overall richness and structure of the bars.
- Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth and aromatic flavor to the filling. It complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and pecans, enhancing the overall taste profile of the bars.
- Kosher salt: A pinch of kosher salt is often added to the filling to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors. It helps to bring out the natural richness of the pecans and provides a subtle savory contrast.
- Chopped pecans: Pecans are the star ingredient in pecan pie bars. They are generously mixed into the filling, adding a delightful nuttiness and satisfying crunch. The chopped pecans provide texture and flavor throughout the bars.
- Flour: A small amount of flour is sometimes added to the filling to help thicken the mixture and ensure a cohesive texture when baked. It helps bind the ingredients together and gives the bars a smooth and consistent filling.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bars
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars
- This crust has a shortbread-like texture that helps keep the bars together. If you prefer a more flakey crust, start with frozen, cubed butter rather than softened butter.
- I poke the crust after it has been baked because I like it to rise slightly before I add the filling— it helps create a lighter, softer crust.
- Make sure to let the bars chill fully before slicing so it can set properly. If the pan is still warm, the filling will still be runny and you won’t be able to slice them.
Other Recipes to Try
PrintPecan Pie Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
Description
If you love pecan pie, these pecan pie bars are a must make treat! These bite-sized desserts are the perfect thing to bring to a party!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1/2 cup butter (softened )
- 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2–3 tablespoons cold water (if needed)
For the Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 375F. Line an 8” square baking dish with parchment paper and spray it lightly with non-stick baking spray.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together the softened butter, flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon on low speed until it comes together in large clumps. If the dough seems too dry, add cold water 1 tablespoon at a time until it comes together in large clumps. It should only 1-2 minutes.
- Transfer the dough to the parchment lined baking dish and pat it into a smooth, compacted layer.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is starting to turn golden brown around the edges.
- When the crust has finished baking, remove it from the oven, poke it 8-10 times with a fork and set it aside to cool.
Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans and flour.
- Add the pecans/flour to the wet ingredients and fold them to combine. Pour the filling over the crust and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling no longer jiggles when gently shaken.
- Allow the bars to cool completely and then transfer them to the fridge for at least 1 hour before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Oven
- Cuisine: American
