Easy Pecan Pie Bars is a beloved dessert recipe that captures all the cozy, nutty sweetness of traditional pecan pie, but in an easy-to-make bar form. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or just when you want a treat to share, these bars feature a soft, buttery crust topped with a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.
Why Easy Pecan Pie Bars Works
Easy Pecan Pie Bars work wonderfully because they bring together a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The buttery crust provides a sturdy foundation, so each bar holds up well without crumbling. This crust also brings a slight crispness to contrast with the rich, soft pecan topping. The filling, made with eggs, corn syrup, and brown sugar, caramelizes during baking, giving the bars a sweet, gooey center that pairs perfectly with the crunchy pecans. This recipe also simplifies traditional pecan pie, skipping pie crust rolling and forming while still delivering that classic flavor.
What You’ll Need For Easy Pecan Pie Bars
To make Easy Pecan Pie Bars, you’ll need just a few pantry staples and some chopped pecans:
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the crust, giving it structure.
Unsalted Butter: Adds richness to the crust. Softened butter is ideal for creating a crumbly texture.
Granulated Sugar: Adds slight sweetness and structure to the crust.
Salt: Enhances flavor in the crust.
Large Eggs: Bind the filling and add richness, helping it set firmly.
Light Corn Syrup: Gives the filling its gooey texture and complements the caramel-like flavor.
Brown Sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness to the filling.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
Chopped Pecans: The star ingredient, providing crunch and a distinctive nutty flavor.
How To Make Easy Pecan Pie Bars
- Prepare the Crust: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Press this crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color. This initial baking step ensures the crust remains crisp and provides a strong base for the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Add the Filling and Bake: Once the crust is lightly golden, pour the pecan filling over it. Spread it out evenly so each bar will have a nice layer of filling. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set. You’ll know it’s done when it’s firm to the touch in the center.
- Cool and Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This step is important for achieving clean slices. Once cooled, lift the parchment to remove the bars, then cut them into 24 squares.
Tips + Tricks & More For Recipe Success
Room Temperature Ingredients: For best results, let the eggs come to room temperature before mixing them with the other filling ingredients. This helps create a smoother filling and ensures even baking.
Press the Crust Firmly: When pressing the crust mixture into the pan, make sure it’s even and packed firmly. A smooth, even crust will bake evenly and create a sturdy base for the filling.
Choose Quality Pecans: Fresh, good-quality pecans will make a difference. Opt for pecan halves and chop them yourself for a fresher flavor, or use pre-chopped pecans if you’re short on time.
Baking Time Awareness: Baking times can vary depending on your oven. Keep an eye on the crust to ensure it doesn’t overbake, and check the filling for doneness by giving it a light touch—it should be firm but not overly dry.
Cutting the Bars: For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. This helps prevent the filling from sticking and keeps the squares neat.
How To Serve Easy Pecan Pie Bars
Serve Easy Pecan Pie Bars at room temperature or slightly warm, depending on your preference. They’re delightful on their own but can be dressed up with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate. For an extra-special touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
For Holidays: Arrange Easy Pecan Pie Bars on a dessert platter along with other holiday favorites like brownies and cookies. These bars are perfect for potlucks, gatherings, or holiday parties.
With Coffee or Tea: The rich, nutty flavors pair wonderfully with a warm beverage, making them an ideal treat for a cozy afternoon break.
As Part of a Dessert Spread: These bars look beautiful on a dessert table and are a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to handle and don’t require any utensils, which makes them ideal for a buffet or self-serve setup.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Easy Pecan Pie Bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert, as they taste just as good the next day. You can bake them the night before, allowing the flavors to meld and the bars to firm up even more.