Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour, plus cooling
Servings: 16 bars
Difficulty: Easy
Introduction
These Easy Pecan Pie Bars combine a soft, buttery shortbread crust with a rich, gooey caramel-pecan filling. They’re everything you love about traditional pecan pie, but much easier to prepare and serve.
Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a homemade dessert!
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pecan Filling
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, sugar, flour, salt, and vanilla extract.
Mix until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
Press the dough firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Pre-Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from the oven and set aside while preparing the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Stir in the pecans until evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the Filling
Pour the pecan mixture over the warm shortbread crust.
Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly, making sure the pecans are distributed across the surface.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is mostly set and the edges are golden brown.
The center may have a slight wobble but should not be liquid.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely in the pan.
For cleaner slices, refrigerate for 30–60 minutes before cutting into squares.
Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars
- Use softened butter: It helps create a tender shortbread crust.
- Pre-bake the crust: This prevents the bottom from becoming soggy.
- Don’t overbake: The filling continues to firm up as it cools.
- Let the bars cool: Cutting them too early can cause the filling to fall apart.
- Toast the pecans: For an extra-rich, nutty flavor, lightly toast them before adding to the filling.
Storage Instructions
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Pecan Pie Bars are a wonderful combination of buttery, crunchy, sweet, and gooey textures. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, they’re a delicious alternative to traditional pecan pie.
Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or an everyday treat, these homemade pecan bars are sure to become a family favorite!