Pecan Pie Bars a Taste of Southern Comfort

Pecan Pie Bars Recipe: Southern Comfort in Every Bite!

Ever get a craving for something nutty, sweet, and oh-so-comforting? You know? Well, get ready because this pecan pie bars recipe is about to become your new best friend.

Honestly, it's like taking a big ol' hug from your grandma... if your grandma was a top-tier baker.

These bars take the classic pecan pie and give it a modern twist. Instead of a whole pie, it's cut into easy-to-handle squares.

Perfect for any occasion. What makes these bars so darn special? It's the buttery crust and the crunchy, sweet pecan filling, every bite is just heavenly.

They're also brilliant Individual Catering Ideas .

Why This Pecan Pie Squares Recipe Rocks

Pecan pie is a Southern staple. It's been enjoyed for generations. This pecan pie bars recipe is an easy way to get that classic flavor.

It's also great to portion out! They only take about an hour, including chill time. The recipe yields 16 bars.

The Perks of Pecan Pie Bars

Aside from the pure deliciousness, pecans are a good source of healthy fats and fiber. Plus, these holiday pecan pie bars are a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

They're ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or just when you need a sweet treat. They're the perfect thing for bringing a little Southern pecan pie bars recipe charm to a gathering.

From Ingredients to Golden Goodness

Ready to get baking? Here's what you'll need to create these amazing bars. I have added some variations for my vegan and celiac fellows too.

Alright, let’s dive into what you’ll need to whip up these absolutely divine pecan pie bars. They’re like a slice of Southern comfort, but way more portable! Making them individual catering ideas doesn't require a huge effort.

This recipe is so good, it’s almost embarrassing how easy it is.

Ingredients & Equipment for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars

Honestly, most of this stuff you probably already have kicking about. We’re keeping it simple because life’s too short for complicated baking, you know?

Main Ingredients: Your Shopping List

Here's what you'll need for the shortbread crust pecan pie bars :

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour. Plain old flour does the trick.
• ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed (US) / 115g (Metric). This is key! Cold butter equals flaky crust.
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar.
• ¼ teaspoon salt.
• 4-6 tablespoons (60-90ml) ice water. Add this slowly, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.

For the Filling:

• ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, melted (US) / 115g (Metric).
• 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar. This is what gives the filling that lovely, caramel-y flavour, really making it some pecan pie bars with brown sugar .
• ¼ cup (60ml) light corn syrup.
• 2 large eggs.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
• ¼ teaspoon salt.
• 2 cups (200g) pecan halves. Good quality pecans are where it's at!.

Seasoning Notes: Spice it Up (Or Not!)

The filling is the star, but a few flavour boosters don't hurt. Vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness.

For extra depth, try a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. These are easy spanish dishes level spices. If you are thinking about a pecan pie bars no corn syrup version, you can always substitute with maple syrup or honey in a 1:1 ratio but you might need to adjust the liquid content.

The taste will be different, but still lovely.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

• 9x13 inch baking pan . This is the perfect size for these bars.
• Parchment paper . Makes removing the bars a breeze.
• Mixing bowls .
• Measuring cups and spoons .
• Whisk .
• Pastry blender or food processor (optional) . For cutting the butter into the flour. You can also use your fingers if you are patient.

Honestly, you probably have all this already. If you don’t have a pastry blender, don’t sweat it. Just use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour.

It takes a bit longer, but it works just fine. Now you are ready to try this Southern pecan pie bars recipe

These pecan pie squares recipe are so good they will be the talk of holiday pecan pie bars baking! And they are an easy easy pecan pie bars for anyone!

Cooking Method: Getting these Pecan Pie Bars Just Right

Right, so you want to nail this pecan pie bars recipe, yeah? I get it. It’s more than just shoving ingredients together.

It's about understanding the why behind each step. Plus, let's be honest, nobody wants a soggy bottom. These easy pecan pie bars are meant to be simple and delicious!

Prep Steps: Your "Mise en Place" Sorted

First, let's talk prep. Get all your bits and bobs weighed out and ready. This is the essential mise en place .

Honestly, it stops you from panicking halfway through, especially with baking. Time saving tip? Chop your cold butter while it’s still fridge cold, it's much easier.

Just be careful not to chop your fingers, yeah?. As for safety, well, ovens get hot! Use oven gloves, duh!

step-by-step: Operation Pecan Pie Bars

Okay, here we go:

1. Mix dry ingredients for the crust. Flour, sugar, salt the usual suspects.
2. Cut in the cold butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. Cold is key!
3. Gradually add ice water. Aim for a dough that just comes together.
4. Press the dough into a 9x13 inch baking pan . Prick it with a fork. Chill for 15 minutes .
5. Bake the crust at 350° F ( 175° C) , first with weights for 15 minutes , then without for 5 minutes . Keep an eye on it, you are aiming for lightly golden.
6. Mix the filling: melted butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla, salt, and pecans. Don't over mix!
7. Pour the filling over the crust.
8. Bake for 35- 40 minutes at 350° F ( 175° C) . Look for a set, golden brown filling.

Pro Tips: Nailing those Holiday Pecan Pie Bars

Wanna really knock these out of the park?. Here's some wisdom. First, always use good quality pecans. Honestly, you can taste the difference.

Secondly, don’t overbake. The filling should still be a little wobbly. Common mistake?. Pulling them out too soon. As for make-ahead, you can make the crust a day ahead.

Wrap it well and keep it in the fridge. And if you're catering for a large gathering, consider the elegance of individual catering ideas using these pecan pie bars.

Honestly, once you have this southern pecan pie bars recipe down, you will be sorted. I’m thinking next time, I might try the bourbon version. What do you reckon?.

Recipe Notes for Your Epic Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Right, so you're about to tackle this amazing pecan pie bars recipe . Honestly, you're in for a treat. Let's run through a few things to keep in mind.

I want you all to succeed creating these individual catering ideas .

Nailing the Presentation and Pairings

For serving, think beyond just slicing and serving. A dusting of icing sugar? Yes, please. Some whipped cream? Absolutely. If you are looking for Easy Spanish Dishes , these are not, although, they are easy.

These are the Southern, USA.

These pecan pie bars are awesome warm or cold. Try a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside. Drinks wise, a strong coffee or a glass of milk is perfect.

I honestly love them with a sweet tea.

Storing Your Pecan Pie Squares Recipe (If There Are Any Left!)

Got leftovers? First of all, congrats on not eating them all at once. These easy pecan pie bars will keep in the fridge for about three days.

Just pop them in an airtight container.

If you want to keep them longer, freezing is an option. Wrap them individually and then freeze. When you're ready, just thaw them in the fridge.

A quick warm-up in the microwave, and they're good to go.

Twists and Turns: Variations on This Shortbread Crust Pecan Pie Bars

Fancy a change? Me too! Chuck in a shot of bourbon into the filling. It's a game changer.

If you're avoiding gluten, just use a gluten-free flour for the crust. Easy peasy. You could also swap pecans for walnuts, but it won't be the same, I'm telling you.

They are also super tasty as Holiday Pecan Pie Bars , or Southern Pecan Pie Bars Recipe , but honestly you can use them all year around.

Nutrition Lowdown

Okay, so these pecan pie bars are a treat, right? One bar clocks in at roughly 350 calories. There are about 25 grams of fat, and 35 grams of carbs.

Don't fret too much, it is a pecan pie , but it's loaded with healthy fats from the pecans!

So there you have it. A few tips, tricks, and tweaks for your pecan pie bars . Get baking, and enjoy! Oh, and don't forget to send me a slice!.

And for those wondering if these are pecan pie bars no corn syrup , take a look at the recipe ingredients.

Happy Baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Help! My pecan pie bars recipe crust is tough. What did I do wrong?

A tough crust usually means the gluten in the flour has been overdeveloped. Make sure your butter is very cold when you cut it into the flour. Also, avoid over mixing the dough once you add the water mix only until it just comes together. Chilling the dough also helps prevent toughness.

Can I make these pecan pie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, pecan pie bars are often better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Just like a good cup of tea, these bars are best enjoyed when you've given them a bit of time to breathe.

What's the best way to get clean slices when cutting my pecan pie bars?

Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to cutting these bars! Make sure the bars are completely cool before attempting to slice them. For extra clean cuts, refrigerate the cooled bars for an hour or two before slicing. You can also use a warm, clean knife, wiping it clean between each cut.

It’s a bit like slicing a Victoria sponge precision is key!

Can I use different nuts in this pecan pie bars recipe? I'm allergic to pecans!

While these are pecan pie bars, you can certainly substitute other nuts if needed. Walnuts are a common and delicious alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different. Think of it like swapping the actors in your favorite Bond film - still good, just a different vibe!

My pecan pie bar filling is too runny. What can I do to fix it?

A runny filling usually indicates that the bars weren't baked long enough, or that there was too much liquid in the filling. Next time, ensure you bake the bars until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the centre.

Be precise with measuring the corn syrup and other liquids, and let the bars cool completely - the filling will set up more as it cools. A little patience goes a long way!

Are these pecan pie bars healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?

Let's be honest, pecan pie bars are a treat, not a health food! They're relatively high in calories, fat, and sugar. However, pecans do offer some nutritional benefits, like healthy fats and fiber. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Think of them as a delightful indulgence for those special occasions, like a slice of Christmas cake.