Pecan Pie Bars
Indulge in the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie bars, a perfect dessert for any occasion. These bars combine a buttery crust with a gooey, caramel-like filling that’s loaded with crunchy pecans. They’re easy to make and are sure to impress your family and friends. Serve them warm or chilled, and watch them disappear in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 12 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g fat, 30g carbohydrates, 3g protein, and 20g sugars. This is calculated for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, brown sugar, and salt until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and nutmeg (if using).
- Pour the filling over the baked crust evenly.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan.
- Once cooled, cut into bars and serve.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option. Use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a unique flavor. Gluten-free flour can replace all-purpose flour for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Serving and Pairings
Pecan pie bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Serve with coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can be refrigerated for a week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip chilling the crust; it ensures a flaky texture.
- Overmixing the filling can make it too dense.
- Make sure to bake until the filling is set, or it will be too gooey.
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush cooling; it helps the bars firm up properly.
Helpful Tips
- Use a parchment paper liner for easy removal.
- Toast the pecans beforehand for enhanced flavor.
- Cut the bars with a warm knife for clean edges.
- Experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger for a twist.
FAQs
Can I make pecan pie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container once cooled to maintain freshness.
What can I use instead of eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as substitutes for eggs in this recipe. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg.
How do I know when the bars are done?
The bars are done when the filling is set and slightly puffed up. A slight jiggle is okay; they will firm up as they cool.
Can I add chocolate to the bars?
Yes! Adding chocolate chips to the filling can enhance the flavor and provide a delicious twist.
How do I cut the bars without them falling apart?
Use a sharp, warm knife and cut the bars after they have cooled completely for the best results.
Conclusion
Pecan pie bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that everyone will love. With their buttery crust and rich, nutty filling, they provide a perfect balance of flavors. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet treat, these bars are sure to please!
Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, brown sugar, and salt until crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9x9-inch baking pan.
- Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- In another bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and nutmeg (if using).
- Pour the filling over the baked crust evenly.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan.
- Once cooled, cut into bars and serve.
