If you love the rich, nutty flavor of pecan pie but don’t want to fuss with making a traditional pie crust, these Lazy Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect solution! These bars capture all the delicious flavors of classic pecan pie—sweet, buttery, and slightly caramelized—with a fraction of the effort. With a simple shortbread base and an easy pecan filling, these bars are ideal for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you need a quick and satisfying dessert.
Let’s dive into the recipe and make these irresistible pecan pie bars!
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Pie Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Crust Mixture: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Press into the Baking Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a crust layer.
- Bake the Crust: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Add the Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Bars
- Pour the Filling over the Crust: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the partially baked shortbread crust.
- Bake: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. The bars are done when the filling is firm but slightly jiggles in the center.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into squares or bars.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Cut and Serve: Once completely cool, cut into squares or bars and serve. Enjoy the delicious, gooey, nutty flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-make bar!
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve these bars at room temperature or slightly chilled. They pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Customize the Nuts: Feel free to use a combination of nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts along with pecans for added flavor.
- Make Ahead: These bars can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld together for an even richer taste.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For a twist, add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the filling mixture before baking.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman): Suggests using a pinch of cinnamon in the filling for an extra warm and comforting flavor.
- Ina Garten: Recommends toasting the pecans briefly in a dry skillet or in the oven before adding them to the filling for enhanced flavor and crunch.
- Martha Stewart: Advises lining the baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal and cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
Yes, you can use dark corn syrup for a deeper, richer flavor. Keep in mind it will make the bars slightly darker in color. - Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free version. - Can I substitute honey or maple syrup for corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute honey or pure maple syrup, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. The bars may also be a bit softer. - How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The filling should be set and slightly firm, with a little jiggle in the center. The edges should be golden brown. - What can I serve with these pecan pie bars?
Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat. - Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
Yes, adding 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling mixture is a delicious variation. - How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pan well or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang to lift the bars out easily once cooled. - Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of making the shortbread crust?
Yes, you can use a pre-made pie crust for a quicker option, but the shortbread crust adds a delicious buttery flavor that complements the pecan filling. - Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter is recommended for the best flavor and texture, but margarine can be used as a substitute. - What should I do if the bars are too gooey?
If the bars are too gooey, try baking them for a few extra minutes. Let them cool completely to set before cutting.
Conclusion:
Lazy Pecan Pie Bars are a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of classic pecan pie without the fuss of a traditional pie. With their buttery shortbread crust and rich, nutty filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion and will surely be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy these delicious, decadent bars with your favorite toppings and serve them as a sweet treat for any gathering or holiday celebration!
