Pecan Pie Bars

Introduction: These delicious pecan pie bars are a portable version of the classic Southern pecan pie. They have a buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich and gooey layer of caramelized pecans, making them a perfect dessert for holidays, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a sweet treat. Each bite is full of crunchy pecans and a decadent, sugary filling, sure to satisfy any dessert lover.

Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• Pinch of salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions:

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Bake the Crust: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes or until the edges are golden. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling:

4. Make the Pecan Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. Pour Over the Crust: Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the pecan filling evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden on top.

Cool and Cut:

7. Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang.
8. Cut: Once cooled, cut the pecan pie bars into squares.

Tips:

• Cutting: For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the bars for 1-2 hours before slicing.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Enjoy your sweet, nutty, and irresistible pecan pie bars!