Let’s talk about Pecan Pie Bars. These bars are one the most delicious desserts I have ever made. We’re talking about a brown butter shortbread crust that’s topped with a pecan pie filling and baked until caramelized. These bars are salty, sweet, crunchy, and chewy. They are so decadent and such a wonderful dessert for the holidays. I highly recommend you try this recipe!
Pecan pie is a favorite for the holidays. It’s a once a year type of dessert, right? I mean don’t get me wrong, I would enjoy a piece of pecan pie whenever and wherever, but it’s definitely a dessert that tends to pop up during the colder months. I make these for Thanksgiving and Christmas and they are a HUGE hit.
Why you will love these Pecan Pie Bars:
Pecan Pie Bars taste just like pecan pie, but without the crust. Instead, a buttery shortbread crust is used to make this dessert. I absolutely LOVE this idea. Pies are great, but making them into a bars is just easier for serving. You can pre-cut, place on a cute platter and go.
They are not difficult to make at all. This recipe is EASY and uses simple ingredients.
When I say these are delicious, I mean it! The amount of compliments I have received from these bars is unparalleled. As mentioned above, this is one of those holiday recipes that stands out amongst others. Sure desserts like Pumpkin Pie and Pumpkin Cheesecake and Apple Crisp are delicious and holiday menu worthy, these pecan pie bars are just so unique and memorable.
The Ingredients:
- Unsalted Butter: I like using unsalted butter so I can control how much salt is in my recipes. Butter is used both in the shortbread crust and the pecan pie filling. You will brown the butter for the shortbread crust which gives it a wonderful indulgent nutty smell and taste. See recipe below for how to brown butter!
- Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar is used to sweeten up the shortbread crust.
- Salt: A little salt is added to enhance and balance the sweetness.
- All-purpose flour: AP flour is used for the shortbread crust.
- Dark corn syrup: Dark corn syrup is what gives traditional pecan pie filling its beautiful dark caramel color.
- Brown sugar: You can use light or dark here. Brown sugar is essential to getting that indulgent caramel flavor.
- Eggs: 4 eggs bind the pecan pie filling together.
- Pure vanilla extract: A little vanilla adds warmth and flavor.
- Pecan Halves: Of course pecans are used for the filling. They are so crunchy and delicious!
Instructions:
- First you will make the brown butter shortbread crust and partially bake it in a 9X13 pan.
- While the crust is baking, you will prepare the pecan pie filling by mixing melted butter, dark corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs and vanilla. Add the pecans and stir.
- Once the crust is done, remove from the oven and you will pour the pecan pie filling over the top and bake for about 40 minutes. These are best enjoyed chilled or room temperature.
Tips for Success:
- When browning the butter, make sure to watch it carefully as it can burn easily. This is a vital step for this recipe and SO worth the small effort. You are essentially “cooking” the butter a little to give it flavor. Stirring often on medium-low heat will help ensure it doesn’t burn and browns correctly. Once you see little dark specks forming on the bottom of the pan, remove it and pour into a bowl.
- As always, read the recipe entirely before starting and gather all of your ingredients. This saves time, reduces mess and mistakes.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting. I even suggest placing them in the refrigerator to chill before cutting.
- I suggest cutting them smaller as these are indulgent, but totally understand the want to eat a large one! They’re that good!
The buttery shortbread crust, the super sweet pecan pie filling and then the crunchy top makes for one of these best desserts out there in my opinion. These are so indulgent and delicious, it’s almost ridiculous! Again, I highly recommend making them just because they’re so yummy. Enjoy!
Pecan pie filling is baked on a shortbread crust until caramelized resulting in a salty yet sweet gooey pecan pie bar! store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. I like to refrigerate them as I like them cold!Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
Marcie
These look delicious. Do you think they would freeze well?
Jessica Erin
Thank you! I think they would!