Pecan Bars

Pecan Bars are a rich and buttery dessert featuring a crisp shortbread base topped with a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling. With their deep, nutty flavor and satisfying chew, these bars are a perfect choice for holiday baking, potlucks, or simply when you’re craving something sweet and indulgent.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These pecan bars deliver the classic flavor of pecan pie in an easier-to-make, handheld version. The base is a simple shortbread crust that provides a buttery, slightly crisp contrast to the luscious pecan topping. The top layer is rich, sweet, and nutty—everything you’d expect from a traditional pecan dessert.

They slice beautifully, store well, and are ideal for make-ahead dessert trays. Whether served with coffee or offered as a seasonal treat, these bars consistently impress with their homemade charm and flavor depth.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shortbread Crust:

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Granulated sugar
• All-purpose flour
• Salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• Eggs
• Light brown sugar
• Light corn syrup
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the flour and salt until a dough forms.
3. Press and Bake: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. Stir in flour, then fold in chopped pecans.
5. Assemble and Bake Again: Pour the pecan filling over the partially baked crust. Return to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is set and golden.
6. Cool and Slice: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 24 bars (depending on size)
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 2 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling.
• Maple Flavor: Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a deeper, richer taste.
• Bourbon Twist: Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for a Southern-inspired touch.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both crust and filling.
• Mini Version: Bake in mini muffin tins for bite-sized pecan tartlets.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing: Wrap bars individually or in layers with parchment between, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: Serve at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for 10–15 seconds if desired.

FAQs

Can I make pecan bars without corn syrup?

Yes, you can substitute maple syrup or honey, though it will slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Can I use a pre-made crust?

For ease, you can use refrigerated pie crust, but homemade shortbread offers better texture and flavor.

Do I need to toast the pecans first?

Toasting brings out a richer, nuttier flavor, but it’s optional. If you do, toast in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes before adding to the filling.

Can I make these bars in advance?

Yes, they taste even better the next day after the flavors have set. Make up to 2 days in advance.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a sheet pan for larger batches. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Why did my filling turn out runny?

It may have been underbaked. Be sure the top is fully set and doesn’t jiggle in the center before removing from the oven.

Can I make these nut-free?

The recipe is centered around pecans, but you can try substituting with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely, although the texture and flavor will change significantly.

Are these bars suitable for freezing?

Yes, they freeze very well and can be made ahead for holidays or special events.

Can I use dark corn syrup instead?

Yes, but it will create a deeper, more molasses-like flavor compared to light corn syrup.

What’s the best way to cut them cleanly?

Chill completely before slicing and use a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts.

Conclusion

Pecan Bars are a wonderfully rich and nutty dessert that offers all the goodness of pecan pie in a convenient bar form. With a buttery shortbread crust and a sweet, gooey pecan topping, they’re as satisfying to eat as they are to make. Perfect for holidays, special occasions, or a cozy homemade treat, these bars are destined to become a baking staple.

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