Pecan Pie Bars

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These pecan pie bars are everything you love about the classic holiday pie, transformed into a handheld treat. With a buttery shortbread crust, gooey caramelized filling, and a crunchy pecan topping, these bars are irresistible. They bring all the nostalgic flavors of Thanksgiving and Christmas desserts in a simple, no-fuss square.

Perfect for gatherings, bake sales, or as a sweet indulgence with your afternoon coffee, these bars offer the rich depth of pecan pie without needing a fork. They’re easy to transport, even easier to cut and serve, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

• No pie crust rolling required – the shortbread base is simply pressed in.
• Caramel-rich filling with that signature sticky chewiness.
• Toasty pecans for crunch and depth.
• Great make-ahead option.
• Each batch makes 16 generous bars.

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What Kind of Pecans Should I Use?

Use raw, unsalted pecan halves or pieces. Toasting them slightly before baking can deepen their flavor, but it’s optional since they’ll toast more in the oven. If you’re short on time, using untoasted pecans will still produce delicious bars.

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Ingredients for the Pecan Pie Bars

All-purpose flour – The base of the crust. It provides structure and helps hold the bars together.

Unsalted butter – Used in both the crust and the filling. It gives that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Granulated sugar – Sweetens the crust and balances the filling.

Brown sugar – Adds a molasses flavor to the filling that pairs beautifully with pecans.

Corn syrup – Helps achieve the sticky, gooey consistency we associate with classic pecan pie.

Eggs – They bind the filling and provide that custard-like texture.

Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances the pecan flavor.

Salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavor.

Pecan halves or pieces – The star of the show – nutty, rich, and crunchy.

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How To Make the Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, mix 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed) until crumbly. Press the mixture evenly into the pan and bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Filling

While the crust bakes, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup corn syrup, 1 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted), 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir in 2 cups chopped pecans.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the pecan filling over the hot crust right when it comes out of the oven. Spread evenly. Return to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and doesn’t jiggle in the center.

Step 4: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then lift them out using the parchment paper. Slice into 16 squares. For clean edges, chill before cutting.

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How to Serve These Rich Pecan Pie Bars

These bars are perfect as a standalone dessert for potlucks or holidays, or plated with a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes them to the next level. This recipe yields 16 bars and comfortably serves 8 to 12 people.

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How to Store Pecan Pie Bars

Let bars cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 6 days. To freeze, wrap each bar in parchment and place in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze well for up to 2 months.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use maple syrup instead of corn syrup?
Yes, but the filling may be a bit runnier and have a stronger maple flavor.

Do I need to toast the pecans?
Not necessary, but you can toast them briefly on a skillet for added depth.

Can I halve the recipe?
Yes, use an 8×8 pan and cut all ingredients in half.

Why is my filling runny?
It likely wasn’t baked long enough. Bake until the center is just set.

How do I get clean slices?
Chill the bars before slicing and use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.

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Want More Dessert Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these pecan pie bars, you’ll want to try these delicious treats next:

• Oatmeal Jam Bars for a fruity, chewy contrast.
• Salted Caramel Cake if you’re craving layered decadence.
• Red Velvet Cheesecake Brownies with a rich, chocolatey base.
• Moist Pumpkin White Chocolate Chip Muffins for cozy autumn mornings.
• Fried Apple Pies for hand-held holiday nostalgia.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap in walnuts? Add chocolate chips? I’m always curious how you put your own spin on it.

You can also check out more of my sweet creations on Pinterest: Life With Mira

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