If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug wrapped in a buttery, nutty, and sweet package, this Pecan Bars Recipe is the one to try. These bars bring together a light, crumbly crust with a gooey, caramel-like pecan topping that’s crisp on the edges and perfectly chewy in the middle. Whether it’s a holiday treat or a crowd-pleasing snack, these pecan bars combine simple ingredients in a way that delivers incredible flavor and texture with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is your first step to nailing this Pecan Bars Recipe. Each ingredient is simple yet essential, contributing to the right balance of buttery crust, sweet filling, and crunchy pecans that make these bars unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened): Gives the crust its rich, tender texture and buttery flavor that’s a perfect base.
- Powdered sugar (2/3 cup): Ensures a smooth, sweet crust that melts in your mouth without any grittiness.
- All-purpose flour (2 cups + 2 tablespoons): The backbone for both the crust and the filling’s structure, balancing softness and chewiness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon + 1/4 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet flavors and keeps the taste from being flat.
- Large eggs (3): Help bind the filling ingredients together while adding richness and moisture.
- Light corn syrup (1 cup): The secret to that sticky, caramel-like filling consistency with a glossy finish.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds deep, molasses undertones to the sweetness and balances the buttery crust.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Brightens the flavor with subtle aromatic notes that make every bite pop.
- Chopped pecans (2 cups): The star ingredient providing crunch, warmth, and nutty goodness throughout the bars.
How to Make Pecan Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper so the bars will lift out effortlessly once baked. In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until you achieve a silky and smooth mixture—this step ensures your crust is tender and buttery. Then add 2 cups of flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, mixing just until the dough becomes crumbly. Press this evenly into your baking pan; this forms the delicious base that will support the luscious pecan topping.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for about 18 to 20 minutes, watching closely for a light golden hue around the edges. This brief bake firms it up just enough to hold the filling without losing that buttery flakiness, giving you a sturdy yet tender foundation for your pecan bars.
Step 3: Make the Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. This combination will transform into that signature sweet, sticky filling. Stir in the chopped pecans last to make sure every bite delivers a satisfying crunch and rich nutty flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the pecan filling evenly over the hot crust right after it comes out of the oven—that heat helps the two layers meld perfectly. Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is set and slightly puffed, with the edges bubbling and golden brown.
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Let your pecan bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Cooling fully is key so the filling firms up enough to cut clean bars without any sticky mess. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire block out before slicing into 24 generous bars.
How to Serve Pecan Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely visual touch and a hint of extra sweetness that brightens these bars. For a festive twist, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top right before serving, which adds a fresh crunch and that toasty aroma we all adore.
Side Dishes
These pecan bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to cut through their sweetness with a cool, creamy contrast. A cup of strong coffee or a rich dark tea complements the nutty flavors perfectly, making your snack or dessert experience feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your pecan bars on elegant trays lined with decorative doilies during holiday gatherings or afternoon tea parties. You can also create mini versions by cutting smaller squares, perfect for bite-sized indulgence or gifting them in beautiful boxes for friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
One of the best things about this Pecan Bars Recipe is how well the bars hold up after baking! Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. This allows the texture to remain perfectly chewy and the flavors to deepen.
Freezing
To extend their shelf life, wrap individual pecan bars tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They freeze well for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying, and they’ll taste freshly made without losing any of that buttery crunch.
Reheating
If you prefer your pecan bars slightly warm, pop a few bars in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or warm them gently in a low oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This reawakens the gooey filling and softens the crust, making them feel like a brand-new treat straight from your kitchen.
FAQs
Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans are the classic choice for this Pecan Bars Recipe, walnuts or almonds make delicious alternatives that add their own unique crunch and flavor twist.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
You can experiment by replacing the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be mindful that the texture might vary slightly. Adding a bit of xanthan gum can help maintain structure.
Can I use dark corn syrup or honey instead of light corn syrup?
Light corn syrup is preferred for its mild sweetness and consistency, but dark corn syrup can be used for a richer flavor, and honey will alter the texture and taste slightly but still works in a pinch.
How do I prevent the filling from becoming too runny?
Be sure to whisk the filling ingredients thoroughly and bake until the center is set and barely puffed. Overbaking can dry the bars, but underbaking keeps the filling too loose, so timing is key.
Can I add chocolate chips or bourbon to the filling?
Yes! This Pecan Bars Recipe is quite versatile. Adding a handful of chocolate chips brings extra indulgence, and a splash of bourbon adds a lovely smoky depth to the filling—both are fantastic variations to try.
Final Thoughts
These pecan bars are one of those delightful recipes that instantly make any gathering feel special and cozy. With their buttery crust and sweet, nutty topping, they’re a timeless treat you’ll want to make again and again. Give this Pecan Bars Recipe a try the next time you want to impress friends or simply indulge yourself with something truly comforting. I promise, once you do, they’ll become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire!
Print
Pecan Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deliciously rich and nutty pecan bars featuring a buttery crust and a sweet, gooey pecan filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful dessert any time of the year.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang on the sides to easily lift out the bars later.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 teaspoon salt, mixing until the dough becomes crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the oven and bake the crust for 18 to 20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Remove from the oven and leave the oven on for the next step.
- Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until fully combined. Stir in the chopped pecans to distribute them evenly throughout the filling.
- Add Filling and Bake: Immediately pour the pecan filling over the hot crust once it comes out of the oven. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is set and slightly puffed.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before using the parchment overhang to lift them out. Slice into 24 bars and serve.
Notes
- For a twist, add a splash of bourbon to the filling for extra depth of flavor.
- Mix in a handful of chocolate chips with the pecans in the filling for a chocolatey variation.
- These bars can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered at room temperature to maintain freshness.
