Here’s a delicious recipe for Pecan Pie Bars, perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat for any occasion!
Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2-3 tbsp ice water (as needed)
For the filling:
- 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark)
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups pecans, chopped or whole (depending on preference)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal. You can also lightly grease the pan.
2. Make the Crust:
- In a food processor, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add vanilla extract and pulse a few times.
- Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough begins to come together (you may need to add 2-3 tablespoons).
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it is lightly golden.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans or whole pecans (depending on your preference).
4. Assemble the Bars:
- Once the crust has baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Pour the pecan filling evenly over the warm crust.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, though it will be sticky due to the syrup.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve.
Enjoy your Pecan Pie Bars! These are rich, sweet, and have the perfect balance of crunchy and gooey with a buttery crust. Perfect for a dessert table or as a treat with coffee or tea!