Introduction
Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering all the flavors you love in a more convenient and portable form. These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat for your family. Made with a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need and the steps to create these irresistible Pecan Pie Bars.
Ingredients
For the crust:
– All-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar
– Unsalted butter
– Salt
For the filling:
– Eggs
– Light corn syrup
– Brown sugar
– Vanilla extract
– Chopped pecans
Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, confectioners’ sugar, butter, and salt to make the crust dough.
3. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract for the filling.
5. Stir in the chopped pecans and pour the filling over the partially baked crust.
6. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the filling is set.
7. Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize your Pecan Pie Bars to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
– Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty contrast.
– Mix in some chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for a decadent touch.
– Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a unique flavor profile.
– Substitute maple syrup for the corn syrup for a maple pecan twist.
Tips
– Make sure to line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
– Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
– Serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Bars are a wonderful dessert that combines the flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a handheld bar. With a buttery crust and a gooey pecan filling, these bars are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something sweet, these bars are a must-try recipe. Get creative with variations and enjoy the deliciousness of Pecan Pie Bars!
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?
A: While homemade crust is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can certainly use store-bought crust as a time-saving option.
Q: Can I freeze Pecan Pie Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use pecan halves instead of chopped pecans?
A: Absolutely! Pecan halves can add a beautiful presentation to the bars.
Pecan Pie Bars
Delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, Pecan Pie Bars offer all the flavors you love in a more convenient and portable form. Made with a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat for your family.
Ingredients
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
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1/2 cup unsalted butter
-
1/4 teaspoon salt
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3 large eggs
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1 cup light corn syrup
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1 cup brown sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking dish with parchment paper.
-
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, confectioners' sugar, butter, and salt to make the crust dough.
-
Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
-
In another bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract for the filling.
-
Stir in the chopped pecans and pour the filling over the partially baked crust.
-
Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until the filling is set.
-
Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
