pecan pie bars recipe

Homemade Pecan Pie Bars Recipe | Easy Dessert Guide

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As autumn leaves fall and the air gets crisp, nothing beats the smell of pecan bars baking. These treats were a big part of my family’s holiday tradition. Each bite brought back memories of warmth and togetherness.

Now, I’m excited to share this easy recipe with you. You’ll love making these homemade pecan pie bars for your loved ones.

Why These Pecan Bars Are the Perfect Dessert Choice

Pecan pie bars are a great choice instead of traditional pecan pie. They are easier to make and have many benefits. They are perfect for any event.

Easy Alternative to Traditional Pecan Pie

Unlike traditional pecan pie, these pecan dessert bars have a simple shortbread base. This base is quick and easy to prepare. It’s ideal for those who want pecan pie flavors without the hassle.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Options

These southern pecan treats can be made ahead and frozen. They stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to three months. This makes them a convenient dessert choice.

Perfect for Gatherings and Special Occasions

These pecan pie bar bites are perfect for any event. They make a generous amount, so you can share them with everyone. Or save some for later.

The combination of a tender shortbread crust and a crunchy pecan topping is a hit. Try these pecan dessert bars for your next special occasion.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars

To make the perfect pecan bars or pecan pie bar cookies, you need the right ingredients. You’ll need all-purpose flour, butter, and sugar (both kinds). Corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and pecans are also crucial.

The crust is made with flour, icing sugar, vanilla, salt, and melted butter. The filling is a mix of brown sugar, flour, cornstarch, salt, eggs, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla, and chopped pecans. These ingredients combine to give you a sweet, nutty, and buttery treat.

Crust IngredientsFilling Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup confectionary sugar (powdered)
  • 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
  • 12 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 12 Tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups pecans

With these ingredients, you’re ready to bake delicious pecan squares. Your friends and family will love them. Now, let’s get started with the steps to make these tasty pecan pie bar cookies.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed

Making the perfect pecan pie bars needs some key kitchen tools. These tools help you bake smoothly and get the right taste and texture. Here’s what you should have ready:

Baking Pan Recommendations

A 9×13-inch baking pan is best for this easy pecan recipe. Choose a high-quality pan with straight edges for a clean look. Using parchment paper in the pan makes it easy to take out the bars after they cool.

Mixing Tools and Accessories

  • Mixing bowls (at least two): One for the crust and one for the pecan filling.
  • Whisk: Helpful for blending the filling ingredients smoothly.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula: Useful for mixing and spreading the crust and filling.
  • Stand mixer or hand mixer (optional): Can make mixing the crust and filling easier, but not essential.

Measuring Equipment

Getting the right measurements is crucial for perfect pecan pie bars. Here are the tools you’ll need:

  1. Measuring cups: For accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients.
  2. Measuring spoons: For precisely adding smaller amounts of spices, extracts, and other ingredients.
  3. A sharp knife: For neatly cutting the cooled bars into squares or rectangles.

With the right tools and equipment, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious, homemade pecan pie bars that are sure to impress your family and friends.

Creating the Perfect Buttery Shortbread Crust

The heart of pecan bars, pecan squares, and gooey pecan bars is the buttery shortbread crust. It offers a perfect contrast to the rich, sticky pecan filling. This balance of flavors and textures is key.

To make the ideal shortbread crust, mix all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Melt unsalted butter and mix it with the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse crumbs. Press the dough into a baking pan, making sure the edges are slightly higher. Use a fork to prick the crust to avoid air bubbles.

Pre-bake the crust for 15-20 minutes at 350°F. It should be set but not browned. This step keeps the shortbread crisp and tender, ready for the pecan filling.

pecan bars crust

With a perfect buttery shortbread crust, you’re ready to make delicious pecan bars, pecan squares, and gooey pecan bars. The flaky, golden crust and the rich, caramelized pecan topping are a perfect pair.

Pecan Pie Bars Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready for a fun dessert adventure with our pecan pie bars recipe. You’ll make a delicious treat that will wow your loved ones.

Preparing the Crust Base

First, heat your oven to 350°F. Mix 1 ¾ cups of flour, ½ cup of sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ⅓ cup of chopped pecans in a bowl. Add 1 cup of unsalted butter and mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. Press this dough into a 9×13 inch baking pan.

Bake the crust for 18-22 minutes. It should turn lightly golden brown.

Making the Pecan Filling

While the crust bakes, make the pecan filling. In one bowl, mix ¾ cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. In another, beat 2 eggs until they’re the same color. Add ¾ cup of corn syrup, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Combine the dry and wet ingredients. Let it sit while the crust bakes.

Baking and Cooling Process

After the crust is done, mix 1 ¼ cups of chopped pecans into the filling. Pour the filling over the warm crust. Bake for 30-35 minutes, until a knife inserted one inch from the edge comes out clean.

Let the bars cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours. Then, refrigerate them for at least 2 hours before cutting.

By following these steps, you’ll make irresistible pecan pie bars. Enjoy the buttery crust and gooey pecan filling in every bite.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Flavor

Creating the ultimate pecan pie bar bites requires focus on texture and flavor. To get your gooey pecan bars just right, here are some expert tips:

  1. Let the pecan pie filling sit for a few minutes while you prepare the crust. This makes the filling the perfect gooey consistency.
  2. Before baking, poke holes in the dough with a fork. This stops air bubbles and ensures even baking.
  3. Pour the pecan pie filling onto the warm, pre-baked crust for better adhesion.
  4. Let the bars cool completely, then chill them in the fridge for 1-2 hours. This makes the filling set and results in clean cuts.
  5. Use a serrated knife to slice the southern pecan treats. This way, you won’t push the pecans through the gooey filling.

By following these tips, you’ll get a perfect mix of a buttery, crisp crust and a rich, gooey pecan pie filling. Your homemade pecan pie bar bites will be a hit.

pecan pie bars

IngredientQuantity
All-purpose flour for crust1 ¼ cup
Chopped pecans for filling2 cups
Whole pecans for decorating19
Butter for filling5 tablespoons
Large eggs for filling3
Brown sugar for filling1 cup
Honey for filling½ cup
Molasses for filling1 ½ tablespoons

“These pecan pie bar bites are the perfect balance of a buttery, crisp crust and a rich, decadent pecan pie filling. The texture and flavor are simply irresistible!”

Storage and Serving Recommendations

Pecan pie bars are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re planning to serve them at a gathering or savor them as a personal treat, proper storage and serving techniques are key to preserving their exceptional flavor and texture.

Room Temperature vs. Refrigeration

For short-term storage, pecan pie bars can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. This allows the bars to maintain their irresistible, buttery shortbread crust and rich, gooey pecan filling. If you prefer to extend their shelf life, refrigerate the bars for up to 5 days, ensuring they stay fresh and intact.

Freezing Guidelines

  • For longer-term storage, pecan squares can be frozen for up to 3 months.
  • To freeze, allow the bars to cool completely, then cut them into squares and place them on a baking sheet.
  • Once frozen, transfer the squares to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
  • When ready to serve, thaw the pecan dessert overnight in the refrigerator before bringing it to room temperature.

For a special touch, serve the pecan pie bars slightly warmed in the microwave, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Storage MethodShelf Life
Room TemperatureUp to 2 days
RefrigeratorUp to 5 days
FreezerUp to 3 months

By following these storage and serving guidelines, you can ensure that your homemade pecan pie bars recipe remains fresh, flavorful, and ready to delight your taste buds whenever the craving strikes.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Make your pecan pie bars even better by trying new things. Add rich chocolate chips or a caramel layer for extra taste. You can also mix in walnuts or pecans and almonds for different textures.

Use maple syrup or honey instead of corn syrup for a richer flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a nice contrast. For a grown-up twist, add a bit of bourbon or rum to the filling.

These changes let you make the pecan pie bars your own. They keep the classic taste but add your special touch. Let your imagination run wild and create the ultimate pecan dessert for any southern pecan treats event.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients for pecan pie bars?

To make pecan pie bars, you need flour, butter, and sugar. You’ll also need corn syrup, eggs, vanilla, salt, and pecans.

What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make pecan pie bars?

You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking pan and parchment paper. Also, mixing bowls, a whisk, and a spoon or spatula are essential. Measuring cups and spoons are also needed. A stand mixer or hand mixer can be helpful but is not necessary.

How do you create the perfect buttery shortbread crust for pecan pie bars?

Start by mixing flour, icing sugar, vanilla, and salt in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until it’s all combined. Press the mix into the pan, making sure to create a lip around the edges.Poke the crust with a fork to prevent air bubbles. Then, pre-bake it for 15-20 minutes until it’s set but not browned.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor in pecan pie bars?

Let the filling sit while you prepare the crust. This helps it thicken. Before baking, poke the crust with a fork to prevent air bubbles.Pour the filling onto the warm crust for better adherence. Let the bars cool completely. Then, chill them for 1-2 hours before slicing for cleaner cuts.

How can pecan pie bars be stored and served?

Store pecan pie bars at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months.To serve, thaw the bars overnight in the fridge. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed in the microwave.

What are some variations and flavor enhancements for pecan pie bars?

You can add chocolate chips, bourbon, or sea salt on top for a twist. Try using different nuts or a mix of nuts for varied texture and flavor.For a unique touch, add a layer of caramel between the crust and filling. Or, experiment with maple syrup or honey instead of corn syrup.