Holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas can be hectic, and there’s no reason to let dessert preparation add to anyone’s stress! These delicious pecan pie bars are simple to make, taste just like pecan pie, and can be baked well ahead of time for convenience. These easy pecan bars start with a rich, buttery shortbread crust. That’s topped off with an also buttery, sweet and gooey classic pecan topping, making them ultra decadent and impossible to resist. Need more holiday baking recipes with pecans? I think you’ll enjoy my Pecan Pie Cheesecake, Pumpkin Pecan Pie, and Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies too!
Pecan Pie Bars Recipe Highlights
Ingredients In Pecan Pie Bars
Here’s what you need to make the perfect pecan pie bars recipe: Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Shortbread Layer: This is a classic shortbread, made with only flour, granulated sugar, and melted butter. I’m using salted butter here for simplicity. Pecans: Roughly chop the pecans so that they are smaller than whole, but not too small. You want to have pieces of varied sizes for the right texture. Eggs: Three large eggs give the filling structure. Without these it would be runny and messy. Light Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives the filling a dark color and a deep, caramelly sweet flavor. Light Corn Syrup: This is what makes pecan pie topping so ooey, gooey and delicious. Vanilla Extract: Vanilla helps to elevate all of the other flavors in this dish.
How To Make Pecan Bars
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
Recipe Tips
Add Extra Pecans: You can arrange a handful of pecan halves on the top of the bars in a pretty pattern before baking. I usually do this with my pecan pie, but it’s not totally necessary here. Don’t skip the first bake. The crust needs to bake on its own before the wet pecan filling is added. If you skip pre-baking the crust, it will never fully bake. Remember to turn the oven up for the second baking step too. Check for doneness. When the bars are finished baking, the edges should be firmly set and browned. The center of the pan will still jiggle just a bit, and will firm up as the bars cool. Serving. These are perfect just the way they are, but they’re even better with a little bit of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storing Tips
Keep leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container. They stay fresh best if refrigerated for up to three days.
More Easy and Delicious Holiday Desserts
After the turkey and stuffing are gone, get ready to fill your Thanksgiving table with all of the best, most delectable pies and treats! My holiday dessert recipes are all tried, tested, and loved by readers.
Sweet Potato Pie Pumpkin Pie Turkey Cupcakes Swirled Pumpkin Brownies No Bake Pumpkin Pie Chocolate Pudding Pie Apple Pie
Don’t forget to create a special Thanksgiving cocktail! My Apple Cider Margarita or Pumpkin Old Fashioned are perfect for any autumn party.
What can I use instead of Karo Syrup?
If you’d rather not make these with corn syrup, you can use an equal amount of honey instead. The flavor is a bit different, but still quite delicious!
Do Pecan Pie Bars Need to be Refrigerated?
Because the filling is made with eggs, it’s safest to keep these stored in the fridge to avoid any bacteria. However, many home cooks will tell you that pecan pie is fine to leave out at room temperature.
Can these bars be frozen?
Yes, and they freeze very well! I suggest that you wrap each serving with plastic wrap, then place the bundles in a freezer container or bag. Label the bag and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw pecan pie bars overnight before enjoying.
Can I make these bars gluten free?
I’ve had good results making shortbread crusts with an all-purpose gluten-free baking flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. I haven’t specifically tested it with this recipe, but I think it should work just fine.
Should pecan pie be served cold or warm?
This is up to your personal preference. Personally, I enjoy pecan pie and pecan pie bars when they are at room temperature. If you’re making these ahead and storing them in the fridge, let them sit out on the counter for an hour or so before serving. Pecan Pie Bars are easier to make than a traditional pecan pie and just as tasty! Don’t forget to Pin this recipe so that you can always find it. © Little Sunny Kitchen
