Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are a quick and easy way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of a classic pecan pie without the hassle. These bars have a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey pecan filling that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, potluck, or just because, these pecan pie bars will surely be a hit!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the melted butter, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting.
Step 4: Serve
- Once cooled, cut the pecan pie bars into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Room Temperature Eggs: Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Lining the Pan: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out and cut them evenly.
- Chilling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices and the perfect texture.
Variations
- Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a chocolatey twist.
- Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the filling for an extra depth of flavor.
- Maple Pecan Bars: Replace the light corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a rich, maple flavor.
- Nutty Mix: Use a mix of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, along with pecans for added variety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Dark Corn Syrup Instead of Light Corn Syrup?
Yes, you can use dark corn syrup for a richer, more caramel-like flavor. The color of the bars will be slightly darker as well.
2. How Do I Store Pecan Pie Bars?
Store the pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
3. Can I Freeze Pecan Pie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
4. Can I Use a Different Size Baking Dish?
You can use a smaller baking dish, but the bars will be thicker, and you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
- Whipped Cream: Serve the bars with a dollop of whipped cream for extra sweetness.
- Ice Cream: Pair the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic, delicious dessert.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of each bar for added decadence.
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these bars with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat.
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect solution for when you’re craving the flavors of pecan pie without all the fuss. With a buttery crust and a gooey, nutty filling, these bars are simple to make and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving them for a holiday dessert or just treating yourself, these pecan pie bars are sure to satisfy. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of pecan pie in a convenient bar form!
