Introduction to Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Pecan pie bars are a delightful twist on the traditional pecan pie, making them a must-try dessert for any occasion. Imagine biting into a rich, buttery shortbread crust topped with a luscious, gooey caramel filling, loaded with crunchy pecans. It's a dessert that effortlessly blends cozy flavors with a bit of elegance, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo with your favorite beverage.
Why Pecan Pie Bars are a must-try dessert?
These bars are not only simple to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a weekend brunch, or just indulging yourself, pecan pie bars fit the bill. They can be easily cut into bite-sized pieces, making them ideal for a dessert platter or a sweet treat to take to a potluck. Plus, their irresistible combination of textures—from the crunchiness of the pecans to the softness of the filling—ensures that each bite is full of flavor.
Moreover, pecans are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, providing a guilt-free reason to indulge. So, if you’re looking to impress your friends or simply want a comforting dessert, our Pecan Pie Bars Recipe is the perfect solution. Get ready to elevate your dessert game with these delicious treats!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Bars
Creating delicious Pecan Pie Bars starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown to help you prepare for this delightful treat!
Essential Ingredients for the Crust
The crust of the bars is crucial for that perfect base. For a buttery and flaky shortbread crust, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the foundation of your crust.
- ½ cup powdered sugar – Adds just the right amount of sweetness and a tender crumb.
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 12 tablespoon unsalted butter (cold and diced) – Provides richness and structure to your crust.
If you're curious about the best all-purpose flour, check out King Arthur Baking for high-quality options.
Key Ingredients for the Filling
Now, let’s move on to the luscious filling that makes these bars a standout:
- ¾ cup light brown sugar (packed) – Offers that deep caramel flavor.
- ½ cup honey – Adds natural sweetness with distinct floral notes.
- 12 tablespoon unsalted butter – Ensures a rich, gooey filling.
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream – Creates creaminess and a velvety texture.
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses a lovely aroma and flavor.
- 3 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans (14 oz) – The star ingredient, providing crunch and richness.
With these components on hand, you’re well on your way to baking a batch of Pecan Pie Bars that will impress friends and family alike!
Preparing Pecan Pie Bars
Making Pecan Pie Bars is an enjoyable process that suits both seasoned bakers and those just starting out. Let’s walk through the steps together to create these delightful treats that are sure to impress friends and family!
Gather your ingredients
Before diving into the baking, it's vital to assemble everything you need. For the crust, grab:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 12 tablespoon unsalted butter (make sure it's cold and diced)
For the filling, have on hand:
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- 12 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans (that’s about 14 oz)
Having everything at your fingertips will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, you might find it helpful to check out Natasha’s Kitchen for more baking tips.
Prepare the crust
Once you have your ingredients squared away, let’s make the crust. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9x13 baking pan with foil or parchment paper—this step is crucial as it helps lift the bars out later. In your food processor, blend together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt until mixed. Then, add in the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs—don’t worry if some pea-sized pieces remain, they add texture.
Bake the crust
Next, transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan, pressing it evenly across the bottom. Bake it for 18-20 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Make the delicious pecan filling
Now for the star of the show—the pecan filling! In a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, honey, butter, cream, and salt. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about two minutes. Remove it from the heat and stir in your vanilla and the chopped pecans, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
Assemble and bake the bars
The final assembly is where the magic happens! Pour the hot pecan filling over the warm crust. Pop it back into the oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and beautifully caramelized on top. Once baked, let the pan cool completely on a wire rack before cutting. This cooling step is essential for achieving that perfect bar consistency.
Now you're ready to share your Pecan Pie Bars with everyone—enjoy the deliciousness!
Variations on Pecan Pie Bars
Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
If you love chocolate, you'll adore chocolate pecan pie bars! Simply melt a cup of your favorite chocolate chips into the pecan filling for a rich, indulgent twist on our classic Pecan Pie Bars Recipe. The combination of gooey chocolate and crunchy pecans is truly heavenly. Don’t forget to sprinkle a few extra pecans on top before baking for added texture!
Nut-Free Pecan Pie Bars
For those with nut allergies, fear not! You can still enjoy delicious pecan pie flavors with our nut-free variation. Replace pecans with a mix of sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. Adding a hint of maple syrup will keep that Pecan Pie Bars Recipe flavor profile intact while ensuring your treat is allergy-friendly.
Cooking tips and notes for Pecan Pie Bars
Essential baking tips
To ensure perfect Pecan Pie Bars, make sure your butter is cold—this helps create that deliciously crumbly shortbread crust. When mixing your filling, stir the ingredients just until combined to maintain texture. Keep an eye on the baking time; overbaking can lead to a dry filling. For added flavor, consider using a mix of pecans and walnuts!
Storing and serving notes
These bars store beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For serving, they are best at room temperature, so plan to let them sit out a bit before indulging. They also freeze well—just wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and they’ll be ready for your next occasion!
Need more tips? Explore expert advice from The Kitchn on enhancing flavors.
Serving suggestions for Pecan Pie Bars
Ideal pairings for pecan pie bars
Looking for the perfect complement to your Pecan Pie Bars Recipe? Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess beautifully contrasts with the crunchy nuts and sweet filling. For a refreshing twist, pair them with a cup of herbal tea or freshly brewed coffee, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them.
Creative serving ideas
Elevate your dessert presentation! Try drizzling some caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt over the bars just before serving for an extra touch. Cut the bars into smaller squares for a bite-sized treat on a dessert platter, or layer them in a clear glass with chopped pecans and cream for an enticing parfait. These ideas will surely impress your guests and make your Pecan Pie Bars the star of any gathering!
For more great pairing ideas, check out this culinary guide for desserts and beverages that match beautifully with pecan pie.
Time breakdown for Pecan Pie Bars
Preparation time
Get ready in just 15 minutes. That's plenty of time to gather your ingredients and whip up the shortbread crust!
Cooking time
Next, sit back and let your Pecan Pie Bars bake for 40 minutes—just enough for that delicious caramel topping to form.
Total time
In only 55 minutes, you'll have a scrumptious batch of Pecan Pie Bars ready to indulge in. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself!
Nutritional Facts for Pecan Pie Bars
Calories Per Serving
Each serving of these delicious Pecan Pie Bars contains approximately 261 calories. This makes them a delightful treat to enjoy without the guilt, fitting nicely into your dessert options.
Fats and Proteins
Packed with 19g of fat and 2g of protein, these bars are rich in flavor, thanks in part to the generous amount of pecans used. The combination of creamy butter and wholesome ingredients contributes to their satisfying texture. For more detailed nutritional insights on pecans, check out the American Pecan Council. Enjoy these Pecan Pie Bars as a decadent finishing touch to your meal!
FAQs about Pecan Pie Bars
What can I substitute for butter in the crust?
If you're looking to swap out butter in the crust of your Pecan Pie Bars Recipe, try using coconut oil or margarine instead. Both options will give you a similar texture, though coconut oil may impart a slight coconut flavor. For a dairy-free alternative, you can also consider using vegan butter, which works wonderfully in this recipe.
How to prevent the filling from overcooking?
To ensure your filling doesn’t overcook, keep a close eye while it's baking. Since the pecan filling is made with sugar and honey, it can caramelize quickly. Consider using an oven thermometer to guarantee your temperature is accurate and begin checking the bars a few minutes before the recommended baking time. When the top is bubbly and has a beautiful caramel color, it's time to remove them from the oven.
Can I freeze pecan pie bars?
Absolutely! Pecan Pie Bars freeze well, making them a fantastic choice for holiday preparations. Just ensure the bars are completely cooled and cut into squares. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in an airtight container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight!
Conclusion on Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
In conclusion, these delightful Pecan Pie Bars are perfect for any occasion, especially the holidays! With a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey filling, they are sure to impress your friends and family. Try this Pecan Pie Bars Recipe and elevate your baking game today!
Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13 baking pan
- Food Processor
- pastry cutter
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 12 tablespoon unsalted butter cold, diced
For the Filling
- ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
- ½ cup honey
- 12 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ½ cups coarsely chopped pecans 14 oz
Instructions
To Make the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 350˚F. Line a 9×13 baking pan with foil or parchment paper (leave some paper hanging over the sides of the pan for an easier lift later). Spray with non-stick cooking spray and set aside. In the bowl of a food processor (or in a bowl with a pastry cutter), pulse together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt a couple of times to combine. Add diced cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles a coarse meal with some pea-sized pieces forming.
- Transfer the mixture to your prepared pan, pressing the crust evenly into the bottom of the pan. Bake at 350˚F for 18-20 minutes or until the crust has set and the edges are just lightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside while you finish the filling.
Make the Pecan Pie Bars
- In a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, butter, cream and salt. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and pecans, mixing until incorporated.
- Pour hot pecan filling over your warm crust. Return to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbling and turns a caramel color. Set the baking pan on a wire rack and cool completely to room temperature before cutting.
- Once the pecan squares are at room temperature, loosen the edges if needed and use the parchment paper or foil to lift the bars out of the pan. Transfer to a cutting board and cut into 2-inch squares. Serve at room temperature.
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