Lazy Pecan Pie Bars
These Easy Pecan Pie Bars are a simplified take on the classic pecan pie, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling. Perfect for holidays or whenever you’re craving a sweet treat, they’re quick to prepare and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp butter melted
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a bit of overhang for easy removal.
Make the Crust:
- In a medium bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and combine with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan, forming an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Prepare the Filling:
- While the crust is baking, whisk together the corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, and melted butter in a bowl until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Assemble the Bars:
- Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the pecan mixture over the hot crust. Spread the filling evenly if necessary.
Bake:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. The center should jiggle slightly but not appear overly liquid.
Cool and Slice:
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment overhang. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into squares.
Optional Finishing Touch:
- For a festive touch, lightly dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving.