When the craving for something sweet strikes, there’s nothing more comforting than homemade Pecan Pie Bars. The blend of buttery crust and gooey, nutty pecan filling offers a delightful twist on the classic dessert you might expect this time of year. As the warm scent of vanilla and toasted pecans wafts through your kitchen, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a cozy holiday gathering, even if it’s just a Tuesday evening.
One evening, after a hectic week, I found myself with a pantry full of ingredients but no idea what to whip up. That’s when I remembered this beaut of a recipe! With just 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of baking, these Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares are not only simple to make but also ideal for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as an indulgent treat after dinner.
So, let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to impress and satiate those sweet cravings without all the fuss!
Why You'll Love This Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares
- These Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares are delightfully easy to make, requiring just 15 minutes of prep time, which means less stress in the kitchen.
- The flavors are absolutely irresistible, combining a buttery crust with a rich, gooey pecan filling that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Their versatility shines through, making them perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight desserts to festive gatherings.
- Plus, the visual appeal of these golden, nutty bars will surely impress your guests and elevate your dessert table.
Pecan Pie Bars Ingredients
• Capture the essence of homemade goodness!
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – provides the structure for a flaky, buttery base.
- Granulated sugar – adds a touch of sweetness to balance the richness.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors, making each bite irresistible.
- Unsalted butter – cold and cubed, it creates that heavenly crumbly texture for your crust.
For the Filling
- Large eggs – bind the ingredients together, giving the filling its custard-like consistency.
- Light corn syrup – brings luscious sweetness and a gooey texture to your pecan pie bars.
- Granulated sugar – balances the flavor, ensuring that the sweetness is just right.
- Unsalted butter – melted, it helps create a silky smooth filling that glides over the crust.
- Pure vanilla extract – infuses a warm, aromatic note for that homemade touch.
- Chopped pecans – offer crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that truly defines these Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bars
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly-roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it. The overhang will make removal easier later on.
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Combine flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
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Bake the crust for 20 minutes, until it’s lightly golden. This step ensures a firm base for your gooey pecan filling.
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Whisk together eggs, light corn syrup, 1 1/2 cups sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans, creating a delicious filling for your bars.
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Remove the baked crust from the oven. Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the hot crust, taking care to spread it gently to avoid disturbing the crust.
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Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen beautifully!
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Cool completely on a wire rack once out of the oven. Lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares for serving.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a lovely finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pecan Pie Bars Variations
Feel free to switch things up and personalize your Pecan Pie Bars with these fun ideas!
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Nut-Free: Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version that still packs flavor and crunch.
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Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a deliciously decadent twist. Imagine the melty chocolate mingling with the chewy pecans!
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Maple Syrup: Replace light corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a richer, aromatic sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pecans.
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Spiced Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that takes these bars to another level.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing texture.
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Coconut Flakes: Stir in 1 cup of toasted coconut flakes with the pecans for a tropical twist that adds a unique flavor and chewiness.
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Cream Cheese Layer: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese mixed with a bit of sugar and vanilla on the crust before adding the pecan filling. You’ll enjoy a creamy richness in every bite!
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Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle some crushed pretzels or toffee bits on top before baking for an exciting texture contrast and a sweet-salty touch. The crunchy surprise will make every slice even more delightful!
How to Store and Freeze Pecan Pie Bars
Room Temperature: Store Pecan Pie Bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezer: Freeze Pecan Pie Bars individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: Warm bars in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Enjoy the gooey filling and crispy crust just like fresh!
Make Ahead Options
These Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares are a dream for any busy home cook looking to simplify their meal planning! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and cutting in the butter. Store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator to maintain its flavor and texture. The pecan filling can also be whisked together and kept in the fridge overnight, making assembly a breeze. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the filling on the pre-baked crust and bake as directed. This method allows you to enjoy the same delicious bars with minimal effort, ensuring you have time for what truly matters—making memories with loved ones!
What to Serve with Pecan Pie Bars?
As you savor the sweet indulgence of these delightful treats, consider pairing them with some irresistible accompaniments.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm pecan bars, enhancing their deliciousness.
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Fresh Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that complements the gooey filling beautifully.
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Hot Coffee: Rich, dark coffee balances the sweetness of the pecan bars, making for a delightful after-dinner treat.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced cider infuses your dessert experience with a cozy aroma, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling melted chocolate sauce over your pecan pie bars adds a touch of decadence; chocolate and pecans are always a winning combo.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the bars perfectly.
Imagine serving these Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares at your next gathering, alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a scoop of ice cream—pure bliss awaits!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares, ensure your butter is cold when making the crust, as this helps create that flaky texture.
- When cutting in the butter, aim for a coarse crumb texture for best results.
- Make sure to spread the pecan filling evenly over the baked crust without disturbing it to maintain a beautiful presentation.
- Keep an eye on the bars while baking; a shy 25-minute bake time will ensure the filling sets properly but remains gooey and delicious.
Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select pecans for my Pecan Pie Bars?
Absolutely! When selecting pecans, look for ones that are plump and free of dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh pecans should have a pleasant, nutty smell, and avoid any that smell rancid. If you can, try to buy them in smaller quantities, as nuts can go stale over time.
How should I store leftover Pecan Pie Bars?
Very! To maintain their chewiness, store Pecan Pie Bars at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, place the bars in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!
Can I freeze Pecan Pie Bars? If so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Pecan Pie Bars, first allow them to cool completely. Then wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, making sure to seal them tightly. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, and they will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge before savoring that gooey goodness!
What can I do if my Pecan Pie Bars filling isn’t setting?
If your filling isn’t setting, it may need a little more time in the oven. Check after the initial baking time of 25 minutes; if the filling still wiggles, return it to the oven for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. Make sure the top is golden and that a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the filling. If you find it’s too runny, it might be that the eggs weren’t fully incorporated, so mix them in well next time!
Are Pecan Pie Bars safe for dogs?
No, they are not safe for dogs. Pecan Pie Bars contain sugar, which isn’t good for dogs, and pecans can be harmful in large amounts. Always keep your lovely baked goods for yourself and opt for dog-friendly treats for your furry friends to ensure their health and safety.
Can I substitute any ingredients for these Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to cut back on sugar, consider using a sugar substitute that measures cup-for-cup like erythritol. For a nut-free version, you can use sunflower seeds to mimic the pecan texture. If you need a gluten-free crust, you might replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Just make sure to monitor baking times, as these adjustments can alter the texture and baking needs.
Pecan Pie Bars Sweet Squares
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly-roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
- Combine flour, 1/2 cup sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes, until it's lightly golden.
- Whisk together eggs, light corn syrup, 1 1/2 cups sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Remove the baked crust from the oven. Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the hot crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden.
- Cool completely on a wire rack. Lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares for serving.
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