Southern Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

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Introduction:

Experience the warmth and sweetness of the South with a delightful twist on a classic dessert – Pecan Pie Bars. These decadent treats capture all the flavors of traditional pecan pie in convenient, handheld bars, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting dessert for a family gathering or looking to impress guests at a potluck, these easy-to-make Pecan Pie Bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to recreate the irresistible taste of the South in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

Crust:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

Filling:

  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups pecans, coarsely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.

Make the crust:

  1. In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add cubed butter and blend using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes until just golden.

Prepare the filling:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
  2. Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly.
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are golden brown.
  4. Cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Using the parchment overhang, lift the bars out of the pan, and slice into squares.
  5. Serve and enjoy! Optionally, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

Serving Tips:

  1. Cool Completely Before Serving: Allow the Pecan Pie Bars to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing into squares or bars. This ensures that the filling sets properly and makes it easier to cut into neat portions.
  2. Slice into Uniform Portions: Use a sharp knife to slice the cooled Pecan Pie Bars into uniform portions. Wiping the knife with a damp cloth between cuts can help create cleaner slices.
  3. Serve with a Dollop of Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Enhance the indulgence of Pecan Pie Bars by serving them with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy accompaniment balances the sweetness of the bars and adds a delightful contrast in texture.
  4. Garnish with Pecan Halves: For an elegant presentation, garnish each Pecan Pie Bar with a pecan half before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also hints at the delicious pecan filling inside.

Storage Tips:

  1. Store in an Airtight Container: Once completely cooled, transfer the Pecan Pie Bars to an airtight container lined with parchment paper or wax paper to prevent sticking. Layer the bars between sheets of parchment paper to avoid them sticking together.
  2. Refrigerate for Longer Shelf Life: To extend the shelf life of the Pecan Pie Bars, store them in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will keep well for up to 5-7 days.
  3. Bring to Room Temperature Before Serving: Before serving refrigerated Pecan Pie Bars, allow them to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This helps restore their soft texture and enhances their flavor.
  4. Freeze for Future Enjoyment: If you have leftovers or want to make a batch ahead of time, Pecan Pie Bars freeze well. Wrap individual bars or the entire batch tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans? While pecans are traditional for pecan pie bars, you can experiment with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different nuts may alter the flavor and texture of the bars slightly.
  2. Can I make these pecan pie bars ahead of time? Yes, you can make pecan pie bars ahead of time. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
  3. Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making the crust from scratch? Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust for convenience. Simply roll out the pie crust to fit the baking dish and proceed with the recipe as directed. Keep in mind that homemade crust may yield slightly better flavor and texture.
  4. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste preferences. Keep in mind that reducing the sugar may affect the sweetness and texture of the bars. You can try reducing the sugar slightly and adjusting to taste.
  5. How do I know when the pecan pie bars are done baking? The pecan pie bars are done baking when the edges are golden brown and the filling is set in the center. You can perform a toothpick test by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bars – if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bars are done. Be careful not to overbake, as this can result in dry bars.

Conclusion:

With their buttery crust, gooey pecan filling, and irresistible sweetness, Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate indulgence for any dessert lover. Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat after dinner or as a special addition to a holiday spread, these Southern-inspired bars are guaranteed to please. Easy to make and even easier to devour, Pecan Pie Bars are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the comforting flavors of the South with every bite of these delicious bars.

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