Pecan Pie Bars deliver the classic taste of pecan pie in a simple, shareable bar form. They are ideal for gatherings, ensuring every guest enjoys this sweet, nutty treat without the hassle of slicing pie.

• Cuisine: American
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 24 bars

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to serve at parties or gatherings.
• No need for pie crust – quick to prepare.
• Rich, buttery flavor with a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the crust, providing structure and stability.
• ½ cup white sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances sweetness.
• 1 cup butter or margarine: Creates a rich, tender crust. Margarine can substitute butter if preferred.
• 1 ½ cups light corn syrup: Gives the filling its signature sweet, gooey texture. Honey can act as a substitute.
• 1 ½ cups white sugar: Sweetens the filling, balancing the richness of pecans.
• 4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients, setting the filling as it bakes.
• 3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted: Adds richness to the filling.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the pecans and sweet filling.
• 2 ½ cups chopped pecans: The star ingredient, providing crunch and a nutty flavor.

How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This technique ensures the crust will be tender and flaky. Press the mixture firmly into a 13×9 inch pan to create an even layer.

Step 2: Pre-Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until it’s lightly golden. This step is crucial to ensure the crust holds up well under the moist filling.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, beat the corn syrup, sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until well blended. Stir in the chopped pecans. The mixture should be glossy and smooth, indicating it’s well-mixed and ready for baking.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Carefully pour the prepared filling over the pre-baked crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Return the pan to the oven. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Step 5: Cool and Cut

Allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack. Wait until completely cool before cutting to ensure clean squares. This prevents the filling from oozing out undesirably.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?

Yes, but keep in mind that dark corn syrup will give the filling a richer, more robust flavor compared to the milder taste of light corn syrup.

How should I store pecan pie bars?

Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week.

Can these bars be frozen?

Absolutely. Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container in the freezer. Thaw at room temperature before serving.