Name: Best Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 12 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and diced; 1/4 tsp fine sea salt; 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup honey; 12 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream; 3 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans (about 14 oz); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Jump to Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of buttery crust and gooey pecan filling that makes pecan pie a classic favorite, especially during the holiday season. I vividly remember the first batch of these Best Pecan Pie Bars I made for a family gathering. They disappeared faster than I could cut them! Not only are they delicious, but they also capture the essence of traditional pecan pie in a bar format, which makes them perfect for sharing. Quick to whip up in just 45 minutes, these bars should definitely be on your holiday baking list!

What Makes This Recipe Special

Pecan pie bars strike the perfect balance between convenience and indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a holiday celebration, a potluck, or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars are your go-to dessert. They come together quickly, making them an excellent option when you’re pressed for time yet want something impressive and delicious.

“These pecan pie bars taste just like traditional pecan pie but are so much easier to serve. They’re a hit at every gathering!”

What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity—no rolling pie crust, no fancy baking techniques, just a straightforward method that results in an irresistible dessert that’s sure to earn rave reviews from family and friends.

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making these Best Pecan Pie Bars is easier than you think, even if you’re a novice baker. The process is straightforward: start with a buttery crust that provides the perfect base, then move on to preparing a deliciously gooey filling topped with crunchy pecans. Here’s how it breaks down:

Crust: A simple blend of flour, powdered sugar, and butter creates a rich, crumbly base.
Filling: Brown sugar, honey, and nuts combine for that iconic pecan pie flavor.
Baking: A quick bake ensures everything melds together beautifully.

Once you’ve prepped your ingredients, the cooking process flows smoothly, making it easier than ever to impress at your next festive gathering.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Before diving into the baking, ensure you have these essential ingredients ready:

Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
Filling:
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup honey
- 12 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 3 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans (14 oz)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp fine sea salt

Feel free to substitute the honey with maple syrup if you’re looking for a different flavor profile!

Step-by-Step Directions

Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving enough overhang for easy removal.
Crust: In a food processor, pulse together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, diced butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until it’s lightly golden at the edges.
Filling: While the crust is baking, combine the brown sugar, honey, butter, cream, and salt in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for exactly 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and chopped pecans until they are well coated.
Combine & Bake: Once the crust is out of the oven, pour the pecan filling over the warm crust, spreading it out evenly. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden.
Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. Lift them out using the parchment overhang and cut into 24 bars.

Best Way to Serve

These pecan pie bars are perfect on their own, but for an extra touch, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top just before serving for that perfect sweet-and-salty combo. For added flair, consider drizzling a little chocolate sauce over the top—a delightful twist!

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’d like to keep them for longer, wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw them in the fridge before enjoying!

Pro Chef Tips

Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is ice-cold; this helps create a flaky crust.
Chop Pecans Evenly: Use a sharp knife to chop your pecans into even pieces, ensuring consistent texture in every bite.
Cool Time: Don’t skip the cooling time! Allowing the bars to set ensures they hold their shape when cut.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Try adding chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolate-pecan twist or experiment with different nuts, like walnuts or hazelnuts, for a unique flavor. For a seasonal spin, incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling to celebrate the flavors of the holidays.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for these bars?

The prep time is minimal. You can have everything ready in about 15 minutes, and the baking will take an additional 30–45 minutes.

Can I make these bars in advance?

Absolutely! These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week, making them perfect for holiday gatherings.

Are there any gluten-free options?

Yes! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

These Best Pecan Pie Bars are sure to be a hit, whether for a family gathering, a holiday feast, or just a delightful dessert at home. With a combination of flavors and textures that create a crowd-pleasing indulgence, they will undoubtedly leave everyone wanting more! Happy baking!