Description
These Simple Pecan Pie Bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a rich, gooey pecan pie filling. Easy to make and perfect for dessert, they offer all the classic flavors of pecan pie in convenient bar form, great for parties, holidays, or any sweet craving.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or fork until the mixture becomes crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs.
- Bake the Crust: Press the crumbly dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake it in the oven for 18–20 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden brown.
- Prepare the Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a bowl until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Pecans: Stir the chopped pecans into the filling mixture to distribute them evenly.
- Assemble the Bars: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the hot baked crust, spreading it out with a spatula or spoon to cover completely.
- Bake the Bars: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the center of the filling is set and does not jiggle.
- Cool Completely: Remove from oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. For cleaner, easier slicing, refrigerate the bars for about one hour before cutting.
- Serve: Cut into bars and serve chilled or at room temperature for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using cold butter in the crust helps create a tender, flaky base.
- Refrigerating before cutting ensures clean slices and helps the filling set properly.
- For a nuttier flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding to the filling.
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pecan pie bars, pecan bars, easy pecan dessert, holiday desserts, pecan pie recipe, shortbread crust bars
