You know, whenever I think of comfort food, pecan pie is one of the first things that pops into my mind! It’s that classic dessert that always reminds me of family gatherings, especially during the holidays. It’s like a warm hug from the inside out! But let’s be honest, cutting into a whole pie can feel a bit messy, right? That’s where these delightful Pecan Pie Bars come in. They’re super easy to make, cut into perfect, gooey squares, and just as delicious as the traditional pie. Plus, they’re portable—ideal for sharing at parties or bringing to family potlucks!
I first made these bars while attempting to impress my friends at a fall get-together. To my surprise, they were a hit! The caramel-like filling paired perfectly with the crispy crust, and honestly, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip them up. Every time I make these bars, I find myself reminiscing about that gathering and laughing at how we had to hide them to save for later.
What’s in Pecan Pie Bars?
Let’s dive into what makes these bars so scrumptious! Here’s a quick rundown of the ingredients you’ll need.
Butter: The essential base for that delicious crust. I always go for unsalted butter to control the saltiness.
Brown Sugar: This gives the filling that rich, caramel flavor. Dark brown sugar works splendidly here for added depth!
Granulated Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and keeps everything perfectly sweet, not overwhelming.
Eggs: These act as the binding agent for the filling and help set everything as it bakes.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla makes a world of difference! Trust me, it enhances all the other flavors.
Corn Syrup: This sticky sweetness is key in getting that classic pecan pie filling texture. Light corn syrup works great.
Pecans: Of course, the star of the show! I often chop them roughly for even distribution throughout the bars, but feel free to leave them whole for a fancier look.
Is Pecan Pie Bars Good for You?
Well, let’s be real: Pecan Pie Bars are definitely more of an indulgence than a health food. However, they do have some benefits!
Pecans: These nuts are actually quite nutritious! They are rich in healthy fats, protein, and several vitamins and minerals. Plus, they are known for providing antioxidants and can help lower cholesterol.
That said, they are also high in sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation. If you’re watching your sugar intake or trying to keep things healthier, consider having just a small piece or experimenting with a lower-sugar version using alternative sweeteners.
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 16 delicious bars.
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 2 cups chopped pecans
How to Make Pecan Pie Bars?
Follow these easy steps to whip up your Pecan Pie Bars!
1. **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. **Make the crust:** In a medium bowl, mix softened butter with brown sugar until creamy. Add in half of the granulated sugar and mix well. Gradually add in 2 cups of flour until combined.
3. **Press the mixture** evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it’s just starting to turn golden.
4. **Prepare the filling:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, the remaining granulated sugar, vanilla, and light corn syrup until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
5. **Pour the filling** over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
6. **Bake** for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is glossy.
7. **Cool completely** in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares and enjoy!
Sweet Secrets and Serving Suggestions
Here are a few tips to take your Pecan Pie Bars to the next level:
– **Add a touch of sea salt** on top right before baking for that delicious sweet-and-salty flavor.
– **Serve them with whipped cream** or vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
– If you want to mix it up, try adding a splash of bourbon to the pecan filling for an adult twist.
– These bars store beautifully! Just keep them in an airtight container for up to a week (if they last that long!).
I can’t wait for you to try these Pecan Pie Bars! They are seriously addictive and perfect for any occasion. If you do make them, please let me know how they turned out and any fun variations you tried. Happy baking!