🍂 Easy Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
These Easy Pecan Pie Bars offer all the rich, gooey flavor of a traditional pecan pie but in a convenient handheld form. With a buttery shortbread crust and a sweet, nutty topping, they’re perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you crave a classic Southern dessert—without the hassle of making a full pie.
📝 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
🍽️ Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, mix flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt until crumbly.
Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
Stir in chopped pecans.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust.
Return to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and doesn’t jiggle.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares or bars. Enjoy!
🍴 Servings
Makes: 20–24 bars
Serving Size: 1 bar (depends on cut size)
🧠 Notes
- Don’t overbake or the filling can become too firm.
- Letting the bars cool fully ensures clean slices.
- You can toast the pecans beforehand for deeper flavor.
💡 Tips
- Parchment paper makes for easy removal and slicing.
- Use dark corn syrup for a deeper molasses flavor.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for 1 week.
- Freeze for up to 3 months (layer with wax paper in a freezer-safe container).
⚖️ Nutritional Info (Per Bar, approx.)
- Calories: 250–280
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 14g
- Sugar: 22g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
(May vary based on portion size and specific ingredients)
🌟 Benefits
- Quick and easy compared to full pecan pie
- Perfect for portion control
- A crowd-pleasing dessert with fewer dishes
- Freezer-friendly and travel-safe
❓ Q&A
Q: Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?
A: Yes, but it will alter the flavor and make the bars slightly softer.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips?
A: Absolutely! Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the pecan mixture for a fun twist.
Q: Why are my bars too runny?
A: They may be underbaked or not cooled fully. Ensure the center is set before removing from the oven.