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If you adore the flavor of a classic pecan pie but love the convenience of bite-sized treats, these Perfectly Pecan Pie Bars are just the thing for you! Toasty pecans, a sweet buttery base, and a hint of autumn spice come together to create a delightful bar that’s both irresistible and easy to share.
Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
- ⅔ cup light brown sugar
- ⅔ cup light corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1¾ cups chopped pecans (plus extra for garnish)
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper. This makes it easier to lift the bars out once they’re baked. In a bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces, and use a pastry cutter (or your fingertips) to mix until crumbly. Press this mixture firmly into the pan to form a dense, even crust. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Stir in the chopped pecans and a pinch of ground cinnamon if you’d like a little extra cozy flavor. Gently pour this blend over the warm crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is just set in the center. Watch for a deep golden-brown color with plenty of toasty pecans peaking through. Let the bars cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares, so they hold their shape beautifully.
These bars perfectly capture the spirit of fall and are a fantastic choice for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or simply treating yourself. The shortbread-style crust offers a bit of crunch, while the sweet and sticky topping brings comfort to every bite. If you’d like to switch things up, try adding a splash of bourbon, tossing in chocolate chips, or swapping out corn syrup for maple syrup. Whether you make them gluten-free with your favorite flour blend or experiment with different nuts, these bars are sure to delight friends and family all season long.
