Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Introduction
If you love the rich and buttery flavor of pecan pie but find making a traditional pie crust intimidating, then pecan pie bars are the perfect solution for you! This delightful dessert combines the sweet and nutty goodness of pecan pie with the ease and convenience of a bar. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or just craving a sweet treat, these pecan pie bars are sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the filling:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Transfer the crust mixture to the prepared baking pan and press it firmly and evenly into the bottom. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the filling
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble and bake
Pour the filling mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
Remove from the oven and let the pecan pie bars cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bars to set further.
Variations
While the classic pecan pie bars are delicious on their own, you can get creative and customize the recipe to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you can try:
Chocolate Pecan Bars:
Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the filling mixture for a decadent twist. The chocolate will melt and create a gooey, fudgy layer between the crust and pecans.
Salted Caramel Pecan Bars:
Drizzle homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce over the cooled pecan pie bars for an extra touch of sweetness and a hint of saltiness. This variation takes the bars to a whole new level of indulgence.
Maple Pecan Bars:
Replace the light corn syrup with an equal amount of pure maple syrup for a more pronounced maple flavor. The maple syrup adds a depth of richness that pairs perfectly with the pecans.
Tips
- Make sure to line your baking pan with parchment paper to easily lift the bars out once they’re cooled.
- For easier cutting, chill the bars in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before slicing.
- To prevent the crust from becoming too crumbly, be sure to press it firmly into the pan before baking.
- For an extra touch of elegance, dust the cooled bars with powdered sugar before serving.
Conclusion
Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering all the same flavors in a convenient and easy-to-make bar form. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, these pecan pie bars are guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself. So go ahead, indulge in the sweet and nutty goodness of pecan pie in a whole new way!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can easily substitute pecans with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination!
2. Can I make pecan pie bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! Pecan pie bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I freeze pecan pie bars?
Yes, pecan pie bars freeze well. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of making the crust from scratch?
Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you prefer. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package and adjust the baking time accordingly.
5. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
Yes, you can use dark corn syrup if that’s what you have on hand. Keep in mind that dark corn syrup has a stronger flavor and a slightly different color, which may affect the overall taste and appearance of the bars.
