Pecan Pie Bars

Mouthwatering Pecan Pie Bars: A Delight to Share

There’s something special about Pecan Pie Bars that makes them a showstopper at any gathering. Imagine the rich, sweet aroma of butter melting into a delectable blend of sugars, mixed with the crunch of pecans. This recipe, which offers a layered treat reminiscent of a classic pecan pie, is perfect for both cozy family evenings and festive occasions. One bite and you’ll understand why this dessert is a favorite. In my experience, these bars have a way of bringing people together around the table for that warm, nostalgic joy.

What Makes This Recipe Special

These Pecan Pie Bars are not just another dessert; they strike the perfect balance between sweet and nutty, combining the comforting flavors of the South with the ease of bar cookies. Whether you’re preparing a special treat for a potluck or just want to indulge your sweet tooth after a long day, this recipe delivers. It’s quick to whip up and can be made with pantry staples, making it budget-friendly as well.

“These bars were the highlight of our Thanksgiving! Rich, buttery, and loaded with pecans. Everybody asked for the recipe!” – Emily R., a happy home chef.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

To whip up these delightful Pecan Pie Bars, you’ll follow a simple yet effective method. The process involves mixing and baking, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. Here’s your roadmap: start by preparing your ingredients, then follow each step to get to the delicious end result. You’ll be amazed at how easily they come together!

Gather Your Ingredients

To get started on these delicious Pecan Pie Bars, here’s everything you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
• 3 large eggs

Pro tip: If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, consider substituting half of the butter with coconut oil for a slight twist on flavor.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will help your bars release easily once baked.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.
3. Add the flour and salt to the mixture. Stir gently until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough bars.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans for that signature texture and taste.
5. Spread your mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This ensures they will hold their shape well.

Best Way to Serve

These Pecan Pie Bars can shine on their own, but if you want to take them up a notch, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Their rich flavor pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. You could also dress them up with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for a more decadent treat.

Keeping Pecan Pie Bars Fresh Longer

After baking, it’s essential to store these bars properly:

• At Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: They can last for about a week in the fridge.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap the bars individually and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Expert Advice

For best results, here are a few pro chef tips:

• Quality Ingredients Matter: Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Cooling Stage: Patience is key! Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to maintain their shape.
• Watch the Oven: Ovens can vary greatly in temperature accuracy. Keep an eye on your bars during the last few minutes of baking.

Creative Twists

Looking to switch things up? Here are some fun variations on this classic recipe:

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a chocolatey twist, mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips.
• Different Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes.
• Pumpkin Spice: For a seasonal touch, add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the batter during mixing.

Your Questions Answered

How long do Pecan Pie Bars take to prepare?

From start to finish, you’ll need about 45 minutes, including baking and cooling time.

Can I substitute the butter?

Yes! You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy alternative.

How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

With these Pecan Pie Bars recipe, you can treat your family or guests to a flavorful dessert that combines ease with indulgence. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the love!

Mouthwatering Pecan Pie Bars

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delightful Pecan Pie Bars that offer a sweet and nutty flavor reminiscent of classic pecan pie.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
• 3 large eggs

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Add the flour and salt to the mixture; stir gently until just combined.
4. Fold in the chopped pecans.
5. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking pan.
6. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Notes

Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an elevated treat. Can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerated for a week.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: pecan pie bars, dessert, baking, sweet treats, holiday recipes