Pecan Pie Bars combine the classic flavors of pecan pie in a simple, handheld bar form. Buttery shortbread crust, a sweet caramel filling, and crunchy pecans on top make these bars irresistible. Perfect for holidays, parties, or any sweet craving, they’re easy to bake and easy to share. Save this recipe on Pinterest to have a quick go-to dessert for gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Portable & shareable: Easy-to-cut bars perfect for parties or lunchboxes.
- Classic flavor: Sweet, buttery, and nutty all in one bite.
- No pie pan required: Makes it simpler than traditional pecan pie.
- Easy prep: Minimal ingredients, big flavor payoff.
- Perfect for holidays: A festive addition to any dessert table.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust: Cream butter and sugar together until light. Stir in vanilla, then gradually add flour and salt. Press mixture evenly into prepared pan. Bake 15–18 minutes until lightly golden.
- Prepare filling: In a bowl, whisk eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Stir in chopped pecans.
- Assemble & bake: Pour filling over warm crust and spread evenly. Bake 25–30 minutes until set and golden on top.
- Cool & cut: Let bars cool completely in the pan before lifting out with parchment paper and cutting into squares.
Tips & Variations
- Nut alternatives: Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Chocolate twist: Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled bars.
- Extra caramel flavor: Add 1 teaspoon maple syrup to the filling.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Storage & Freezer Instructions
- Room temperature: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap; freeze for up to 2 months.
- Serving: Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving & Pairing Ideas
- Pair with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a sweet treat.
- Top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Great for dessert tables, bake sales, or holiday gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which US state is famous for its pecan pie?
Pecan pie is most famously associated with Louisiana and Texas, where pecans are widely grown and the dessert is a traditional Southern favorite.
Why are my pecan pie bars runny?
Runny bars usually mean the filling didn’t set properly. Make sure you bake long enough until the filling is firm and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
Is dark or light Karo syrup better for pecan pie?
Both work, but light Karo syrup gives a classic sweet flavor, while dark Karo syrup adds a richer, deeper caramel taste. Choose based on your preferred sweetness and color.
Do pecan pie bars need to be refrigerated?
They can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Refrigeration is optional but can help them last longer, especially in warm climates.
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Pecan Pie Bars
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 24 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttery, sweet Pecan Pie Bars with a shortbread crust, caramel filling, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holidays or dessert tables.
Ingredients
Crust:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling:
3 large eggs
1 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugar, add vanilla, then flour and salt. Press into pan and bake 15–18 minutes.
3. Whisk eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt. Stir in pecans.
4. Pour filling over warm crust, bake 25–30 minutes until set and golden.
5. Cool completely, lift out with parchment, and cut into squares.
Notes
Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds.
Drizzle melted chocolate for extra sweetness.
Add 1 teaspoon maple syrup for richer caramel flavor.
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg