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Pecan Pie Bars: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Dessert

Craving the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie but want a more portable and shareable treat? Look no further than these delectable pecan pie bars! These bars capture all the comforting goodness of a traditional pecan pie in an easy-to-make, hand-held form. We’re talking buttery shortbread crust, a gooey, sweet pecan filling, and that satisfying crunch with every bite. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth any day of the week. This recipe provides a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This guide provides a comprehensive look at how to create these mouthwatering pecan pie bars, from ingredient selection to baking tips and frequently asked questions. We’ll cover everything you need to know to achieve pecan pie bar perfection!

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Bars

These pecan pie bars are more than just a dessert; they’re an experience. The buttery, crumbly shortbread crust provides the perfect base for the rich, sweet, and nutty pecan filling. The bars are easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients. Plus, they’re a fantastic alternative to traditional pecan pie, offering a more convenient and portable option that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on the go. They’re also incredibly versatile, easily customizable to suit your preferences with different nuts, spices, or even a drizzle of chocolate.

Ingredients for Pecan Pie Perfection

The quality of your ingredients plays a crucial role in the outcome of your pecan pie bars. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

For the Shortbread Crust:

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure for the crust.
• Unsalted Butter: Cold butter is key for a flaky, tender crust.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.

For the Pecan Filling:

• Pecans: The star of the show! Use good-quality pecans for the best flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the filling.
• Brown Sugar: Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
• Corn Syrup: Contributes to the gooey texture and prevents crystallization.
• Eggs: Bind the filling together and add richness.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the pecan flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Your Pecan Pie Bars

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect pecan pie bars:

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.
3. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling

1. While the crust is baking, prepare the pecan filling.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup until well combined.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Whisk in the eggs, one at a time, until smooth.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
7. Fold in the pecans.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden brown.
3. Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars.

Step 4: Cool, Cut, and Enjoy

1. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This is crucial for the filling to set properly.
2. Once cooled, cut into bars using a sharp knife.
3. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars

• Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky and tender shortbread crust.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry or hard crust and a tough filling.
• Let Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool completely before cutting ensures the filling sets properly and prevents them from falling apart.
• Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch.

Variations and Adaptations

These pecan pie bars are incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences.

Add a Chocolate Drizzle

Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra touch of indulgence.

Use Different Nuts

Experiment with other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a different flavor profile.

Spice it Up

Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the filling for a warm and comforting flavor.

Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars

Add a tablespoon or two of bourbon to the filling for a boozy twist.

How to Store Pecan Pie Bars

Store leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes | Category: Dessert | Method: Baking | Cuisine: American

Nutrition Card

Calories: 350 | Sugar: 30g | Fat: 20g | Carbohydrates: 40g | Fiber: 2g | Protein: 3g | Yields: 16 bars

FAQs About Pecan Pie Bars

Can I use pre-made shortbread crust?

While making your own shortbread crust is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use a store-bought shortbread crust in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to pre-bake the crust until it’s lightly golden brown. This will help create a barrier between the crust and the filling.

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?

Yes, you can use dark corn syrup, but it will give the filling a deeper, more molasses-like flavor. Some people prefer the taste of light corn syrup for a more traditional pecan pie flavor.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the filling is set and the edges are slightly golden brown. The center may still jiggle slightly, but it will continue to set as it cools.

Can I freeze pecan pie bars?

Yes, pecan pie bars freeze well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

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