Description

Pecan Pie Bars capture the rich, gooey goodness of traditional pecan pie in a portable and easy-to-serve bar form. Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy dessert at home, these bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a luscious pecan filling. The result is a decadent treat that will quickly become a favorite for anyone who tries it.

Ingredients

• For the Crust:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅔ cup unsalted butter, cold, diced
• For the Filling:
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1⅔ cups chopped pecans (about 8 oz)

Preparation Method

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving edges overhanging. Spray the lining with non-stick cooking spray.

2. In a large bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add cold, diced butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.

3. While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in chopped pecans.

4. Pour the pecan filling over the hot crust and spread evenly with a spatula.

5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the filling is set and slightly puffed with a golden-brown surface. The center should jiggle slightly.

6. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Lift out using the overhanging edges and transfer to a cutting board. Slice into squares or bars and serve at room temperature.

Tips and Conclusion

Crust Perfection: To prevent the crust from becoming soggy, bake it until just golden before adding the filling.
Nut Options: While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with walnuts or a mix of nuts for a unique twist.
Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, refrigerate them or freeze in an airtight container for up to two months.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent finish.
These Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful and convenient twist on a classic dessert. With a buttery crust that complements the rich, nutty filling, each bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Whether you're serving these at a festive gathering or enjoying them with a cup of coffee, they’re sure to impress. Try them today and discover why these bars are a cherished favorite. Don’t forget to explore more recipes for inspiration and share this treat with loved ones!