These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect shortcut version of the classic pecan pie, made easy for busy days when you crave that rich, nutty flavor without all the fuss. With a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling, these bars are deliciously satisfying and perfect for holiday gatherings or an everyday treat. The best part is how simple they are to make—no rolling out dough, no pie pans—just a few basic ingredients, a baking dish, and you’re good to go.
Whether you’re a fan of pecan pie or simply love easy desserts, these pecan pie bars will hit the spot. They have all the sweet, nutty flavor of a traditional pecan pie but with a fraction of the effort. Just mix, bake, and enjoy!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the all-purpose flour and salt, and mix until just combined. The mixture will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the pecan filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
- Once completely cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
- Use a sharp knife to cut into squares or bars.
- Serve and enjoy the rich, nutty flavor of these easy pecan pie bars!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Chilling the Bars: Letting the bars cool completely before slicing is key to achieving clean cuts and keeping the filling from oozing out.
- Lining the Pan: Using parchment paper with an overhang makes it easy to lift the bars out of the pan for cutting and serving.
- Mixing the Filling: Be sure to whisk the filling well to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated for a smooth, even filling.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
- Maple Pecan Bars: Substitute the corn syrup with maple syrup for a rich, maple-flavored filling.
- Coconut Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I store these bars?
A: Store the pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Let them thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Q: Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
A: Yes, you can substitute dark corn syrup for a deeper, more robust flavor. The bars will have a slightly richer taste.
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate shortcut to enjoying the flavors of classic pecan pie without all the work. With a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, caramel-like pecan filling, they’re perfect for any occasion, from holiday dinners to casual get-togethers. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious, nutty goodness of pecan pie in a convenient bar form!
