Imagine sinking your teeth into the most decadent, mouthwatering dessert that combines the classic comfort of pecan pie with the convenience of a grab-and-go bar. These Super Easy Pecan Pie Bars are about to become your new obsession – a dessert so irresistible, you'll want to hide them from everyone else! With a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey, nutty filling that's pure heaven, this recipe is your ticket to becoming the ultimate home baker without spending hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 bars
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 cups shortbread cookie crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, combine shortbread cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a compact base.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Pour the pecan filling carefully over the shortbread cookie crust, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and has a slight jiggle in the center when gently shaken.
- Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and transfer to a cutting board.
- Cut into 12 even bars using a sharp knife, wiping the blade clean between cuts for neat edges.
- Serve at room temperature and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Room Temperature Magic: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the smoothest, most well-incorporated filling.
- Crust Perfection: When pressing the shortbread crust, use the back of a measuring cup to create an even, compact base that won't crumble.
- Pecan Pro Tip: For extra flavor, lightly toast your pecans in a dry skillet for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the filling – this will enhance their nutty richness.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, perfect slices that hold their shape.
- Storage Hack: These bars actually get better the next day, so don't be afraid to make them in advance for parties or potlucks.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Precision Cutting: Use a sharp, clean knife and wipe it between cuts to get those Instagram-worthy, perfectly clean bar edges.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg
