Pecan Pie Bars are a delectable twist on a classic Southern dessert. These bars combine the rich, nutty flavor of pecans with a sweet, buttery base, resulting in an irresistible treat that's perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion. All the goodness of a pecan pie, but in a portable, finger-food form, makes them the perfect dessert for gatherings.
The main ingredients for Pecan Pie Bars can be found in most supermarkets. However, there are a couple you may not usually have on hand. Light corn syrup is used to create the sticky, sweet filling that characterizes these bars. It's usually found in the baking aisle of your local grocery store. Raw pecans are the star ingredient, and while they are typically available year-round, do check the produce or baking aisle.
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Bars
Unsalted butter: Used in both the crust and filling, it adds richness and depth of flavor.
Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust and filling, while also deepening the flavor with its molasses notes.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile of the bars.
All purpose flour: The base for the crust of the bars.
Water: Used to bind the crust ingredients.
Light corn syrup: Creates the sweet, sticky filling of these bars.
Heavy cream: Adds creaminess to the pecan filling.
Raw pecans: The star ingredient, adding crunch and nutty flavor to the dessert.
Cooking spray: Prevents the bars from sticking to the pan.
One reader, Gaspar Pierce says:
These pecan pie bars are a game-changer! The buttery crust perfectly complements the rich, gooey pecan filling. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a crowd-pleaser. I love how the flavors meld together, creating a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion.
Key Techniques for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars
How to prepare the crust: The crust is made by beating together butter and brown sugar, then adding vanilla extract, water, and flour until coarse crumbs form. The dough is then pressed into a pan and baked until lightly browned.
How to make the pecan topping: The pecan topping is made by melting butter in a saucepan, then adding brown sugar and corn syrup. After boiling and stirring for 3 minutes, heavy cream and vanilla extract are added, followed by the pecans. The mixture is then poured over the crust and baked until set.
How to cut the pecan pie bars: Once the bars have cooled completely, use a sharp knife to cut them into squares. It's best to clean the knife between cuts to ensure clean edges.
How To Make Pecan Pie Bars
Bake a sweet and crunchy batch of these pecan pie bars, made with a shortbread crust, then topped with sugar-crusted pecans mix, for a tastier treat!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2cupsunsalted butter,softened, divided use
- 2cupslight brown sugar,packed, divided use
- 1tbspvanilla extract,divided use
- 2cupsall purpose flour
- 1tbspwater
- ½cuplight corn syrup
- ¼cupheavy cream
- 1lbraw pecans,chopped
- cooking spray
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper. Coat the pan with cooking spray.
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In a large bowl, using a mixer, beat together 1 cup of the butter and ½ cup of the brown sugar for about 3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
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Add 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon of water, then mix until combined. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour and mix until coarse crumbs form.
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Scoop the dough into the pan. Use fingertips to press the dough evenly into the pan, and use an offset spatula coated with cooking spray to get an even layer.
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Bake for 15 minutes, until the crust is lightly browned around the edges.
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Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1½ cups of brown sugar and the corn syrup. Stir until well blended.
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Bring to a boil and stir frequently for 3 minutes. The mixture will get light and airy.
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Remove the pan from the heat and add the heavy cream and the remaining 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
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Add the pecans and stir until they are completely coated.
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Pour the pecan mixture over the crust, and spread into an even layer.
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Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 minutes, until the pecan topping is set.
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Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 387.93kcal
- Fat: 30.74g
- Saturated Fat: 11.52g
- Trans Fat: 0.62g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.44g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.95g
- Carbohydrates: 28.23g
- Fiber: 2.10g
- Sugar: 18.10g
- Protein: 3.04g
- Cholesterol: 44.07mg
- Sodium: 11.66mg
- Calcium: 31.97mg
- Potassium: 111.98mg
- Iron: 1.05mg
- Vitamin A: 140.15µg
- Vitamin C: 0.22mg
Crucial Technique for Optimal Pecan Pie Bars
When making these pecan pie bars, it's important to ensure that the pecan mixture is evenly spread over the crust. This will ensure that every bite has a good balance of crust and filling. Also, when pressing the dough into the pan, try to make it as even as possible. This will help the bars bake evenly and prevent any overly thick or thin spots. Lastly, be patient and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting. This will make them easier to cut and they will hold their shape better.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pecan Pie Bars
Prep ahead: Prepare the crust and pecan filling a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of baking.
Use pre-chopped pecans: Opt for pre-chopped pecans to eliminate the time-consuming task of chopping them yourself.
Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, organize all the ingredients and equipment needed to streamline the cooking process.
Bake in batches: If you need to make multiple batches, prepare and bake the crusts in succession while the pecan filling is being made to save time.
Invest in quality tools: Quality tools such as a good mixer and sharp knives can make the preparation process more efficient.
Opt for store-bought crust: To save time, consider using store-bought crust instead of making the crust from scratch.
Multi-task: While the crust is baking, use that time to prepare the pecan filling to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the bars, while also adding a hint of coconut flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness and caramel-like flavor, which can work well as a substitute for light brown sugar in this recipe.
all purpose flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the bars, which can complement the pecans in the recipe.
light corn syrup - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and viscosity to the bars, while also adding a hint of maple flavor to enhance the overall taste.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can add a rich and creamy texture to the bars, while also infusing a subtle coconut flavor into the filling.
Presenting Your Pecan Pie Bars
Elevate the plating: When presenting the pecan pie bars, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a combination of geometric shapes and organic lines to add visual interest to the dish.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance to the pecan pie bars by garnishing with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violets. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a subtle floral note to the dish.
Incorporate a drizzle design: Create an artistic drizzle design on the plate using a caramel or chocolate sauce. This will add a touch of sophistication and elevate the overall presentation of the pecan pie bars.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the pecan pie bars to stand out. This minimalist approach will draw attention to the beauty of the dessert.
Add a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the plate with a fine layer of powdered sugar to create a visually appealing backdrop for the pecan pie bars. This subtle touch will enhance the overall presentation.
Consider the use of gold leaf: For an opulent touch, delicately place edible gold leaf on the plate. This luxurious addition will elevate the pecan pie bars to a new level of sophistication.
Incorporate a mirror glaze: Introduce a mirror glaze element to the plate to create a reflective surface that adds depth and intrigue to the presentation of the pecan pie bars.
Use a combination of textures: Incorporate a variety of textures, such as crunchy praline crumbles or smooth caramel sauce, to add complexity and visual appeal to the pecan pie bars.
Essential Tools for Making Pecan Pie Bars
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by surrounding it with dry heat.
- 9x13-inch pan: A baking pan with a size of 9x13 inches, commonly used for baking cakes, bars, and other desserts.
- Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used in baking and cooking to line pans and prevent food from sticking.
- Mixer: An electric kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients in baking and cooking.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and a lid, used for making sauces, boiling liquids, and cooking food.
- Offset spatula: A kitchen tool with a thin, flat, and flexible blade, used for spreading and smoothing frosting, batter, and other mixtures.
- Cooking spray: A sprayable oil used to coat baking pans and prevent food from sticking.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together in baking and cooking.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients in baking and cooking.
Storing and Freezing Your Pecan Pie Bars
- Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
- Once cooled, cut the bars into your desired size and shape.
- For storing: place the cut bars in an airtight container, separating each layer with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For freezing: wrap each individual bar tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen pecan pie bars, transfer the container or bag from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow the bars to thaw overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw individual bars at room temperature for about an hour.
- If desired, you can reheat the thawed bars in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up slightly before serving.
- For optimal texture and flavor, consume the thawed pecan pie bars within 2-3 days of thawing.
How To Reheat Leftover Pecan Pie Bars
To reheat pecan pie bars, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bars on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and warm them in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until they're heated through. This method will help restore the crispness of the crust and the gooeyness of the pecan filling.
If you prefer a softer, chewier texture, you can reheat the bars in the microwave. Place a single bar on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 15-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the filling to become too hot and potentially burn your mouth.
For a quick and easy reheating method, use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the pecan pie bars on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This method is perfect for reheating smaller portions and helps maintain the bars' texture.
If you want to reheat a larger batch of pecan pie bars, you can use a covered dish in the oven. Place the bars in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and heat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the bars are heated through. The foil will help prevent the bars from drying out or becoming too crispy.
For a unique twist, try reheating your pecan pie bars on a griddle or in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in the pan over medium heat, then place the bars in the pan and heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method will give your bars a slightly caramelized exterior and a warm, gooey center.
Interesting Trivia About Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan pie bars are a delicious and portable alternative to traditional pecan pie. They are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings, and they can be easily made in advance.
Budget-Friendly Pecan Pie Bars for Home Baking
The cost-effectiveness of this pecan pie bars recipe is moderate. While the ingredients, such as butter, brown sugar, and pecans, can be quite affordable, the quantity required for this recipe may lead to a higher overall cost. Additionally, the use of heavy cream and corn syrup may add to the expense. Considering the yield and the satisfaction it brings, this recipe earns a solid 8 out of 10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30, making it a reasonable indulgence for a special occasion or a delightful treat.
Are Pecan Pie Bars Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pecan pie bars recipe is undoubtedly delicious, but it's not the healthiest treat out there. Here's why:
- The recipe calls for a whopping 2 cups of butter, which is high in saturated fat and calories.
- It also uses 2 cups of brown sugar and corn syrup, both of which are high in sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess.
- The recipe is also low in fiber and nutrients, as it primarily consists of butter, sugar, and pecans.
While enjoying a treat like this occasionally is fine, regularly indulging in these pecan pie bars could lead to health problems down the line.
To make this recipe a bit healthier, you could try the following:
- Reduce the amount of butter and sugar used in the recipe. You may be able to cut back by 1/4 to 1/2 cup without significantly affecting the taste or texture.
- Swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content.
- Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in place of some or all of the brown sugar to reduce the overall sugar content.
- Add in some chopped dates or dried cranberries to increase the nutrient density and provide some natural sweetness.
- Serve smaller portions and pair with fresh fruit to make it a more balanced treat.
Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Dessert
The pecan pie bars recipe is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie. The buttery crust provides a perfect base for the rich and gooey pecan filling. The balance of sweetness and nuttiness is spot on, and the bars are easy to make. However, I would suggest reducing the amount of butter in the crust to prevent it from becoming too greasy. Overall, these pecan pie bars are a delicious treat that will surely impress anyone who tries them.
Enhance Your Pecan Pie Bars Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Pecan Pie
Appetizer and Main Course Combinations for Pecan Pie Bars
Why trust this Pecan Pie Bars Recipe:
This recipe for pecan pie bars is a tried and true classic, perfected over years of testing and tasting. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and pecans creates a rich, indulgent flavor that's hard to resist. The meticulous instructions ensure that every step is clear and easy to follow, guaranteeing a successful outcome. With a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch, these bars are a delightful treat for any occasion. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, and you'll be rewarded with a delectable dessert that will impress your family and friends.
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