Pecan Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust

Pecan pie bars, nestled in a buttery shortbread crust, are the perfect treat for any occasion. From holiday gatherings to cozy family nights, these bars deliver that classic pecan pie flavor without the fuss of a traditional pie. Having made these countless times, I can vouch for their crowd-pleasing capacity and the joy they bring when shared. The rich, nutty filling and crumbly base combine beautifully, creating a dessert that will leave your loved ones clamoring for more.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with pecan pie bars. Firstly, they’re incredibly easy to make! With minimal prep time and straightforward instructions, you’ll find yourself turning to this recipe again and again. They strike the perfect balance between rich and sweet, making them an ideal dessert for parties or just a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and don’t require any fancy ingredients, making them a favorite during holiday seasons when money can be tight.

“These pecan pie bars are simply divine! I made them for a friend’s gathering, and they vanished in seconds. The shortbread crust is a game changer!” – Jessica W.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making these pecan pie bars is an efficient process that involves two main parts: creating the shortbread crust and preparing the pecan topping. Trust me, getting the layers right is where the magic happens! The combination of cold butter and sugar creates a delightful base, while the sauce made from brown sugar and corn syrup elevates the pecans into something truly special.

Each step is clear and manageable, meaning you’ll have these indulgent bars ready to enjoy in no time. Let’s get into the ingredients next to ensure you have everything you need.

Gather Your Ingredients

To create these delicious pecan pie bars, you will need the following ingredients:

Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 stick cold butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp. salt

Pecan Pie Topping:

• 2 cups pecan halves or pieces
• 2 tbsp. whipping cream
• 1 stick salted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp. maple syrup

This array of simple, wholesome ingredients is likely already in your pantry. Feel free to swap some elements—like using unsalted butter or adding chocolate chips for a unique twist!

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust.
3. Add in the cold butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Press this crust mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the topping. In a saucepan, melt the stick of salted butter.
7. Whisk in the brown sugar, corn syrup, whipping cream, vanilla, and maple syrup. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring.
8. Remove from the heat and add the pecans, mixing until they’re well-coated.
9. Pour this pecan mixture over the baked crust.
10. Return to the oven for another 25–30 minutes until set.
11. Let cool, then cut into bars and enjoy!

Best Way to Serve

These pecan pie bars are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or sprinkle a bit of sea salt to contrast with the sweetness. They also pair well with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk, making them a delightful afternoon snack or a part of your dessert spread at gatherings.

Storage Tips

To keep your pecan pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container where they can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven.

Expert Advice

Here are a few pro tips to ensure your pecan pie bars come out perfectly every time:

• Use cold butter for the crust; this creates a flakier texture.
• Don’t skip the chilling period for the bars after baking; this helps them set up nicely.
• If you prefer a nut-free option, consider using chocolate chips or a fruit filling in place of pecans.

Creative Twists

Feel free to play around with the flavors! Add chocolate chips for a decadent chocolate-pecan variation or swap in walnuts for a unique flavor. You could also spice things up with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling, or even incorporate a splash of bourbon for a more adult twist. The possibilities are endless!

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for pecan pie bars?

Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, and baking takes around 45 minutes, so you can have these bars ready in just under an hour.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! They store well and can be made up to two days in advance for optimal flavor and freshness.

What substitutes can I use for the corn syrup?

You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute for corn syrup, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and make these scrumptious pecan pie bars! They’re sure to become a beloved recipe in your baking repertoire.

Pecan Pie Bars

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• Total Time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 16 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious pecan pie bars nestled in a buttery shortbread crust, perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 stick cold butter, cut into pieces
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups pecan halves or pieces
• 2 tbsp whipping cream
• 1 stick salted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup corn syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp maple syrup

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust.
3. Add in the cold butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Press this crust mixture into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the topping. In a saucepan, melt the stick of salted butter.
7. Whisk in the brown sugar, corn syrup, whipping cream, vanilla, and maple syrup. Bring to a gentle boil while stirring.
8. Remove from the heat and add the pecans, mixing until they’re well-coated.
9. Pour this pecan mixture over the baked crust.
10. Return to the oven for another 25–30 minutes until set.
11. Let cool, then cut into bars and enjoy!

Notes

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 23g
• Sodium: 115mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: pecan pie bars, dessert, easy recipes, holiday baking, bars