If you have a soft spot for classic Southern desserts, you’re going to fall head over heels for these Pecan Pie Bars. They capture all the buttery, nutty, caramel-rich goodness of traditional pecan pie but with the convenient, sliceable form of a bar. Every bite delivers a perfect blend of a tender crust and a luscious, gooey pecan topping that feels like a cozy hug for your taste buds. These bars are deceptively simple to make and absolutely irresistible once they hit your plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that collectively build layers of flavor and texture. From the rich butter that forms a tender crust to the hearty pecans that give the bars their signature crunch, each component plays a star role.

Unsalted butter (1 1/4 cups + 1 cup): Using unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness and ensures a creamy, rich base for both crust and filling.

Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Adds sweetness and helps create a fluffy, tender crust.
Large eggs (2 + 4 egg yolks): Eggs bring the dough together and lend structure, while the extra yolks enrich the filling for smooth creaminess.

Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): A key flavor enhancer offering warm, aromatic notes that tie everything together beautifully.
All-purpose flour (2 1/4 cups): Provides the necessary structure for a sturdy yet tender crust.

Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): A small lift in the crust ensures it’s light and not dense.
Kosher salt (1/8 teaspoon + 1/8 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and amplifies all the other flavors.
Light corn syrup or maple syrup (1 cup): The syrup creates that signature sticky-sweet filling classic to pecan pie with a subtle depth from maple if you choose that option.

Light brown sugar (1 1/4 cups, packed): Adds a deep caramel flavor and gives the filling a lovely molasses-like richness.
Cornstarch (1/2 cup): Key to thickening the filling to that just-right custard consistency.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Adds silkiness and balances the sugars with luscious fat.

Pecans (1 pound): Roasted and roughly chopped for maximum crunch and that unmistakable nutty flavor.

How to Make Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F, then cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it aerates the dough and creates that tender, melt-in-your-mouth crust. Next, blend in the eggs and vanilla, giving the crust its richness and aromatic undertone. Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt ensures there are no lumps, and mixing this dry blend slowly into your wet ingredients maintains the perfect texture. Press the dough evenly into your baking pan — if it’s a bit sticky, a gentle dust with flour helps. Bake just until set, then let it cool completely to avoid damaging the crust when the filling goes on.

Step 2: Whip Up the Topping

The filling is where the magic happens and what truly sets these Pecan Pie Bars apart. Whisk together brown sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth base. Slowly heating this mixture in a saucepan, whisk in the egg yolks alongside maple syrup (or corn syrup) and cream, stirring until it simmers and thickens into a pudding-like consistency. Once off the heat, stirring in cold diced butter adds a velvety sheen to the filling, creating an irresistible glaze. Finally, fold in those roasted pecans and a splash of vanilla extract to round out the flavor with nuttiness and warmth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour your luscious filling carefully over the cooled crust, making sure none sneaks underneath to create uneven baking. Slide it back in the oven for about 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is beautifully set and slightly golden. Resist the temptation to cut into it immediately—let the bars cool fully and then chill them for several hours. This chilling step is essential because it helps the bars firm up, making them easier to slice into perfect squares that hold their shape without crumbling.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Bars

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add a lovely finishing touch and contrast beautifully with the rich, nutty filling. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side brings in creaminess that balances the sweetness, making every bite feel like a decadent treat.

Side Dishes

While these bars easily stand on their own as a dessert star, they pair wonderfully with a cup of strong coffee, hot tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For gatherings, fresh fruit salad or a tangy citrus sorbet provides a refreshing palate cleanser that cuts through the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try cutting the bars into smaller bite-sized squares for a party dessert platter or presenting them stacked with layers of pecan halves on top for eye-catching texture. Wrapping individual bars in parchment and tying with twine makes a charming gift or lunchbox treat that’s as thoughtful as it is delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pecan Pie Bars keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The chilling time actually helps deepen the flavors, so leftovers can taste even better the next day. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They freeze well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and freshness.

Reheating

Warm your bars slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven if you prefer a just-baked feel without losing their rich gooey center. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional and give the bars their classic flavor, walnuts or almonds can be tasty alternatives. Just be sure to toast them to bring out their best flavor.

Is there a way to make the crust gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for good texture, and you might need to adjust the amount slightly for the right dough consistency.

Can I substitute maple syrup for corn syrup?

Yes, maple syrup adds a lovely depth of flavor and makes the filling slightly less sweet. It’s an excellent substitution if you prefer a more natural sweetness and a hint of maple aroma.

How long do Pecan Pie Bars need to chill?

For best results, chill the bars for at least 4 to 6 hours to set the filling completely. If you’re in a hurry, 2 hours might suffice, but they won’t slice as cleanly.

Can I make these bars vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe as written isn’t vegan or dairy-free, but you can experiment with vegan butter and plant-based cream substitutes. Keep in mind the texture and flavor may vary slightly, but the outcome can still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

These Pecan Pie Bars are truly a heartfelt recipe that brings joy to any dessert table. Their buttery crust and rich, nutty filling make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether for holiday celebrations, potlucks, or just a cozy weekend treat. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become one of your go-to favorites to share with family and friends. So grab your ingredients and start baking—your taste buds will thank you!

Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 22 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 5 hours 5 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: 24 bars 1x

Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Deliciously rich and nutty pecan pie bars with a buttery crust and a smooth, sweet filling packed with roasted pecans. This easy-to-make dessert combines the classic flavors of pecan pie in convenient bar form, perfect for parties, potlucks, or anytime you crave a sweet treat.

Instructions

Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the crust and later the pie bars.
Prepare the Crust: Beat 1 1/4 cups unsalted butter with 1/3 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; mix well until combined.
Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, sift together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the batter on low speed until just combined.

Press and Bake Crust: Evenly press the dough into an ungreased 9×13-inch baking pan. If sticky, sprinkle dough lightly with flour. Bake for 15 minutes until the crust is just set. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely to prevent damage when adding the filling.
Prepare the Topping Mixture: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar, 1/2 cup cornstarch, and 1/8 teaspoon salt until evenly combined.
Cook Filling: Place a saucepan over medium-low heat and add the sugar mixture. Quickly whisk in 4 egg yolks, 1 cup light corn syrup (or maple syrup), and 1/2 cup heavy cream until smooth. Stir continuously and bring to a gentle simmer.

Thicken Filling: Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency, about 5-10 minutes.
Add Butter: Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 cup cold unsalted butter diced into pieces until fully melted and incorporated.
Fold in Pecans and Vanilla: Gently fold in 1 pound roasted and roughly chopped pecans and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing well to evenly distribute.

Assemble and Bake: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the cooled crust, avoiding getting filling between the crust and the pan edges. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
Cool and Refrigerate: Remove from oven and let cool fully at room temperature. Then refrigerate for 4 to 6 hours to chill and firm up the bars.
Serve: Cut into bars and serve as a delicious dessert or snack that combines a buttery crust with a rich, nutty topping.

Notes

Use roasted pecans for enhanced flavor and crunch.
Ensure the crust is cooled fully before pouring the filling to avoid cracking or sinking.
Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for light corn syrup for a more natural sweetness and flavor.

Keep bars refrigerated to maintain firmness; bring to room temperature before serving if desired softer texture.
For best results, use room temperature butter and eggs when preparing the crust.
You can sprinkle lightly with flour if dough is too sticky to handle easily.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert

Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar (approx. 2×2 inches)

Calories: 320
Sugar: 23g
Sodium: 110mg

Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g

Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g

Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: pecan pie bars, pecan bars, pecan dessert, holiday dessert, nutty dessert, baked bars, easy pecan recipe

Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need