Description
These Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars combine a buttery, tender crust with a rich, gooey pecan filling, delivering the classic flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-slice bar form. Perfect for gatherings, dessert tables, or comforting snacks, these bars boast a luscious caramel-like filling studded with crunchy pecans baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Crust
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt, mixing just until combined. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust layer.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until it turns a light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly to set.
- Prepare Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, light corn syrup, heavy cream, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. Stir in the chopped pecans evenly.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust and spread it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the filling is set and has a golden hue on top.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out. Slice into 16 squares and serve.
Notes
- Ensure the crust is fully cooled slightly before adding the filling to prevent mixing of layers.
- Use parchment paper to easily lift bars out without breaking.
- Allow bars to cool completely for clean slicing and best texture.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate to extend freshness.
- For extra flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding to the filling.
