How to Make Pecan Pie Bars: A Sweet and Nutty Treat

Pecan pie bars offer the perfect marriage between a classic pecan pie and the convenient, shareable format of a bar cookie. Imagine sinking your teeth into a buttery, shortcrust base, generously studded with crunchy pecans bathed in a rich, gooey filling. Sounds divine, doesn’t it? This recipe guides you through each step, ensuring a delightful baking experience and a truly scrumptious dessert.

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Success

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg yolk

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup dark corn syrup
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup pecan halves

Tools to Equip Your Kitchen Arsenal

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Medium mixing bowls (2)
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Let’s Get Baking: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Creating the Buttery Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal later.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and work them into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Stir in the granulated sugar. Then, add the egg yolk and mix until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 10 minutes.

Pecan Pie Bars Crust

2. Whipping Up the Pecan Pie Filling

1. While the crust pre-bakes, prepare the pecan filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together both sugars, corn syrups, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until thoroughly combined.
2. Gently fold in the pecan halves, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the filling.

3. Assembling and Baking the Bars

1. Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges turn a beautiful golden brown.

Baking Pecan Pie Bars

4. Cooling and Serving

1. Remove the pecan pie bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan before cutting. This allows the filling to set fully.
2. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares, serve, and enjoy!

Tips for Pecan Pie Bar Perfection

• Toasted Pecans: Elevate the flavor by toasting your pecan halves for 5-7 minutes in a 350°F (175°C) oven before adding them to the filling. Watch them carefully to prevent burning.
• Chilling the Dough: If your kitchen is particularly warm, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan. This helps prevent the crust from shrinking during baking.
• Testing for Doneness: To check if your pecan pie bars are done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.

FAQs About Pecan Pie Bars

Can I substitute the corn syrup in this recipe?

While corn syrup contributes to the signature gooey texture of pecan pie, you can try substituting it with maple syrup or golden syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.

How should I store leftover pecan pie bars?

Store your pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Indulge in the Sweet and Nutty Goodness

There you have it – a straightforward recipe for pecan pie bars that promises to impress your family and friends. Embrace the joy of baking and enjoy the irresistible combination of buttery crust and nutty, gooey filling.

Looking for other delectable treats? Explore our website for more tempting recipes like our easy-to-follow guide on how to make caramel cookies! Happy baking!