Okay, picture this: I’m it’s a crisp autumn evening, the air smells like cinnamon and woodsmoke, and you’re craving that one last thing. What is the taste of pecan pie? I don’t want to bake a whole pie. Why? What are Pecan Pie Bars and how do they work? What is the most convenient cousin of a classic pie? Think all the gooey, nutty, buttery goodness you adore, but in a perfectly portioned, easy-to-eat bowl. Is it safe to eat bananas at potlucks? If you love butter tarts, you are going to love this recipe.
What are pecan pie bars?
What are Pecan Pie Bars? They are baked on top of a buttery shortbread crust. Think of it as a handheld pecan pie, perfect for snacking, desserts, or even an elegant cocktail. What are some good brunch spreads? The crust provides a sturdy and slightly crumbly base, while the filling is the star of the show – oh my! How do you make pecan custard? What is the best part of pecan pie? What is a pecan pie in bar format?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, let me count the ways! What I love most about these bars is that they deliver that incredible pecan pie flavor without the intimidation factor of a full-sized pie. No stressing about a soggy bottom or a cracked crust! And let’s be honest, sometimes you just want a smaller portion, right? These pecan pie bars are perfect for satisfying that sweet craving without going overboard. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make – even a beginner baker can whip these up with confidence.
The flavor is, of course, divine. The buttery, slightly salty crust balances the sweet, nutty filling perfectly. Every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes that will have you reaching for another bar before you die. Is it true that you don’t realize it Is pecans cheap? What are some good recipes for this recipe
They’re also surprisingly versatile. If you want to serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for an extra indulgent dessert, pack them tightly and enjoy! What are some good ways to serve a sweet treat in your lunchbox? I’ve even been known to sneak one with my morning coffee – it’s the perfect pick-me-up! I love a good slice of Apple Pie during the autumn months, but these bars offer smoky flavor. Change of pace and require significantly less effort. What are my go-to desserts when I need a quick and easy dessert? What are some great gifts for birthdays?
How do you make pecan pie bars?
Quick Overview
How do you make a bar? How do you make a quick pecan pie filling? Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Don’t be intimidated by mixing a few ingredients together. It’s really just about mixing. How does the oven work? What makes this method different from baking a whole pie? Is it foolproof?
Ingredients
For the Crust:
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: I use unbleached all-purpose flour for a tender crust. You can also use pastry flour for an even more delicate texture.
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes: Cold butter is key for creating a flaky crust. Make sure it’s straight from the fridge!
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps the crust to brown beautifully.
* 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
* 4-6 tablespoons ice water: Added gradually until the dough comes together. Use only as much as you need!
For the Filling: For filling
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Brown sugar adds a caramel-like sweetness and helps to create that signature gooey texture.
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Melted butter contributes to the rich, decadent flavor of the filling.
* 1/4 cup corn syrup: Corn syrup helps to prevent the filling from crystallizing and gives it a smooth, glossy finish. I know some people are corn syrup-averse, but honestly, it makes a big difference in the texture. If you *must* substitute, try honey or maple syrup, but the texture might be slightly different.
* 3 large eggs: Eggs bind the filling together and add richness.
* 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the other flavors and adds a touch of warmth. Use good quality vanilla for the best results!
* 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness.
* 1 1/2 cups pecan halves: The star of the show! Use fresh, good-quality pecans for the best flavor. You can lightly toast them before adding them to the filling for an even nuttier taste, but it’s not strictly necessary.
For the Glaze (Optional):
* 1/4 cup powdered sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and creates beautiful, glossy finish. * 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream: Added gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
What are the Step-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you have an 8×8 inch baking pan, line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides. How do you lift bars out of a pan? I always spray the parchment paper with non-stick cooking spray, just to be extra sure they don’t stick.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. What is the best way to distribute salt in a crust?
Step 3: Cut in the Butter
How do you cut butter in a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse. The smaller the butter pieces, the flakier your crust will be! I always make sure my butter is cold – sometimes I even put it in the freezer for 10-15 minutes. Is it necessary to wait a few minutes before
Step 4: Add Ice Water
Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix! If you overmix the flour, the gluten will develop, resulting in a tough crust. You want it to be just barely holding together.
Step 5: Press into Pan
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. I find it easiest to use my fingers to press it in, but you can also use the bottom of a measuring cup. Dock the crust with a fork a few times to prevent it from puffing up during baking. If you want to be really thorough, you can blind bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling. However, I usually skip this step and it turns out just fine!
Step 6: Make the Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, eggs, Vanilla Extract, and salt. Set aside. I used a little salt and pepper for the filling until smooth. If the butter is melted, be careful not to overheat the eggs! I usually let it cool for a few minutes before adding it to the mixture.
Step 7: Add Pecans
How do you stir pecan halves into the mixture? What is the secret of pecan pie?
Step 8: Pour & Bake
Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. The center of the filling should be slightly jiggly but not liquid. Keep an eye on it, as oven times can vary!
Step 9: Cool & Glaze
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Once cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk for the glaze until smooth. How do you apply glaze to the bars? If you’re not a fan of glaze, you can skip this step entirely! I personally love the added touch of sweetness and the pretty presentation, but they’re delicious.
Step 10: Slice & Serve
What are the best bars to serve warm or room temperature? I like to use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice to get nice, clean cuts.
What should I serve it with?
What are some great pecan pie bars that can be served in so many different ways? What are some of my favorite combinations?
For Breakfast:Serve a small square alongside coffee or latte for an indulgent morning. I like to warm the bar in the microwave for a few seconds to really bring out the flavors. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a nice contrast to the sweetness.
For Brunch:What are some of the best brunch bars in the world? Arrange them artfully on a platter with fresh fruit, like berries or sliced pears, and sprinkle of fresh honey. A glass of sparkling wine or a mimosa is the perfect accompaniment.
As Dessert:Serve warm with vanilla Ice Cream or whipped cream for a classic dessert. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped pecans adds an extra touch of indulgence. What are some good pairings with a glass of wine?
For Cozy Snacks:What are some comfort food recipes? I like to pair these with a spiced chai latte for an extra cozy treat. They are great by themselves.
Growing up, my grandmother always served pecan pie with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream during the lunch hour. What are some of the Best Pecan Pie bars? What are the best crowd pleasers? What are some good ways to enjoy a snack while watching TV?
What are some Tips for perfecting pecan pie bars?
What are some of the best ways to make pecan pie bars? What’s Your best advice?
Cold Butter is Key: Why is it important?For the flakiest crust, make sure your butter is very cold. I like to put it in the freezer for a few minutes before using it. What are those little pockets of butter that create a flaky texture when they melt in your mouth? If butter gets too soft, the crust will be tough and dense.
Don’t overmix the cracks.If you overmix the dough, the gluten will develop, resulting in a tough crust. If the dough is too sticky, mix it just until it comes together, then gently press it into the pan. The less you handle the dough, the more tender the crust will be.
Toast the Pecans: For an even nuttier flavor, toast the pecan halves before adding them to the filling. Spread them out on a baking sheet and toast them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Watch them carefully, as they can burn easily!
Use Good Quality Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract really enhances the other flavors in the filling, so it’s worth using a good quality one. I prefer pure vanilla extract over imitation, as it has a richer, more complex flavor.
Bake Until Just Set: The filling should be set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center. It will continue to set as it cools. Overbaking will result in a dry, crumbly filling. To test for doneness, gently shake the pan. If the center jiggles like liquid, it needs more time. If it jiggles like jelly, it’s done!
Let Them Cool Completely: This is important! Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing. This allows the filling to fully set and prevents them from falling apart. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with different flavors in the glaze. A little bit of maple syrup or bourbon adds a lovely warmth, or you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced glaze. I’ve even made a chocolate glaze by adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the powdered sugar.
Storing and Reheating Tips
These **pecan pie bars** are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later enjoyment as well. Here’s How to store them to maintain their deliciousness:
Room Temperature: You can store the bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They will soften slightly, but the flavor will still be great. I recommend placing a sheet of parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking together. They are also great for bringing to friends when visiting.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can keep the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The crust may become slightly softer, but the filling will remain moist and delicious. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Freezer Instructions: For even longer storage, you can freeze the bars for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This will help to prevent freezer burn. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you plan to freeze the bars, I recommend freezing them without the glaze. Add the glaze after thawing for the best results. The glaze can become sticky or runny if frozen and thawed.
I often make a double batch of these bars and freeze half for later. They’re a lifesaver when I need a quick and easy dessert for unexpected guests!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
These **pecan pie bars** are truly a winner. They’re easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. They offer the comforting taste of pecan pie in a convenient and portable form. I’ve made these countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a special treat for myself, and they always disappear in minutes! If you love the flavors of pecan pie but are intimidated by the thought of baking a whole pie, this recipe is for you. I highly recommend giving these bars a try – you won’t be disappointed! They really make the perfect snack.
If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like my recipe for Chocolate Chip Cookies. Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And don’t forget to rate the recipe – it helps other readers find it! I’d also love to see your creations, so feel free to share photos of your pecan pie bars on social media.
How to Whip Up 7 Lazy Pecan Pie Bars in No Time: A Scrumptious Guide!
Ingredients
Crust
- 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Cold butter cubed
- 0.25 cup Powdered sugar
- 0.25 teaspoon Salt
Filling
- 0.5 cup Melted butter
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 0.25 cup Corn syrup
- 2 large Eggs
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 1.5 cups Pecan halves
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, combine flour, cold butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture into the prepared pan to form the crust. Bake for 15 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well.
- Stir in pecan halves. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the filling is set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
