Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars

Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan pie is a beloved dessert for many, especially during the holidays. It brings together a sweet, nutty filling with a buttery crust. However, making a classic pecan pie can involve a lot of steps and time. This recipe for Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars makes it easier to enjoy the same delicious flavors in a more convenient format. You can savor these bars as a dessert, snack, or even at a picnic. They are simple to make and can be ready in less than an hour.

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Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars


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  • Author: glamorrecipesgmail-com
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 16 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Delicious and easy-to-make pecan pie bars with a sweet, nutty filling and buttery crust, perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour
  • 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar
  • 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 1 cup Chopped Pecans, toasted
  • 0.5 cups Packed Light Brown Sugar
  • 2 large Eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Flavoring
  • 1 pinch Salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
  4. Press the crumbly mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes.
  5. In a medium bowl, mix the packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
  6. Stir in the toasted pecans and vanilla flavoring.
  7. Once the crust has baked for 15 minutes, pour the pecan filling over it and spread evenly.
  8. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes until filling is set.
  9. Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then lift out using parchment paper and cool completely before cutting.

Notes

For added flavor, you can serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Drizzle caramel sauce on top for extra richness.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bar
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Why Make This Recipe

There are several reasons to make Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars. First, they are quick and easy to prepare, making them a perfect solution for those who want a delicious dessert without spending hours in the kitchen. Second, these bars are portable and easy to serve. You can cut them into squares and take them anywhere—ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or family get-togethers.

Furthermore, the combination of flavors in these bars is delightful. The crust is sweet and crumbly, while the filling is rich and satisfying, thanks to the toasted pecans, brown sugar, and eggs. Each bite brings a delightful contrast of textures: a crunchy topping over a soft and smooth filling. Lastly, making these bars gives you the satisfaction of creating a homemade treat that everyone will enjoy.

How to Make Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars

Making Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars is straightforward. You only need to follow a few simple steps, and soon you will have a delicious dessert that you can be proud of. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

  • 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour: Measure correctly for best results.
  • 0.5 cups Granulated Sugar: This sweetens both the crust and filling.
  • 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter: Make sure it is softened at room temperature.
  • 1 cup Chopped Pecans: Toasting them lightly enhances the flavor.
  • 0.5 cups Packed Light Brown Sugar: This adds caramel notes to the filling.
  • 2 large Eggs: They help bind the filling together.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Flavoring: This enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 1 pinch Salt: It balances the sweetness nicely.

Directions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, follow these steps to make your Pecan Pie Bars:

  1. Preheat your oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

  2. Prepare your baking pan: Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This will help you lift out the bars easily once they are baked.

  3. Make the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Then, add the softened butter. Mix everything together until it looks crumbly.

  4. Bake the crust: Press the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake this for 15 minutes.

  5. Prepare the filling: While the crust is baking, take a medium bowl. Mix the packed light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt together. Then, add the eggs one at a time, whisking until the mixture is smooth.

  6. Add the pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans and the vanilla flavoring. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

  7. Combine and bake: Once the crust has baked for 15 minutes, carefully pour the pecan filling over the crust. Spread it out evenly. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes.

  8. Cool: After baking, let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, lift them out using the parchment paper. Allow them to cool completely before cutting them into squares. Enjoy!

How to Serve Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars

Serving Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars is easy. You can cut them into small squares or rectangles and place them on a serving platter. These bars are perfect for sharing. You should serve them at room temperature, but they are also delicious when slightly warm.

If you want to add a special touch, consider serving them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also enhance the richness of the bars. For added flair, sprinkle a few toasted pecans on top of the bars when serving.

How to Store Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars

To store your Pecan Pie Bars, first, make sure they are completely cool. Once they are cool, you can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, store them in the refrigerator, where they can last for about a week.

For even longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cut bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Tips to Make Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars

  1. Measure Ingredients Accurately: To ensure the best results, make sure you measure your ingredients accurately. Too much or too little can affect the texture and flavor of the bars.

  2. Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. You can do this by baking them in the oven for a few minutes until they are lightly golden and fragrant.

  3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using softened butter and room temperature eggs helps the mixture blend better, creating a smoother filling.

  4. Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so important to check on your bars a little before the recommended baking time is up. You want the filling to be set but not overbaked.

  5. Cut Evenly: For beautiful presentation, use a sharp knife to cut the bars when they are completely cooled. Wipe the knife with a clean cloth between cuts for smooth edges.

Variation

If you want to mix things up with your Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars, consider these variations:

  • Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist. This pairs wonderfully with the pecans.

  • Maple Pecan Bars: Substitute maple syrup for part of the granulated sugar. This adds a pleasant maple flavor to the filling.

  • Nut-Free Version: If you need a nut-free dessert, you can replace the pecans with chocolate chips or dried fruit like raisins or cranberries.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. However, make sure to check for any changes in baking times or measurements.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars are done when the filling is set and slightly puffed. You can do a toothpick test by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make these bars a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge until you are ready to serve.

With this guide, you should feel confident making and enjoying Quick Homemade Pecan Pie Bars. They are a delightful treat that brings the flavors of classic pecan pie into an easy-to-eat format. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious bars with family and friends!

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