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Easy Pecan Pie Bars

Delicious pecan pie flavors in a thick, buttery bar that’s perfect for potlucks and cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup cold butter ( sticks)
  • ½ tsp cinnamon
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar (for filling)
  • ½ cup maple syrup
  • ¾ cup butter ( sticks, melted)
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ tsp salt (for filling)
  • 1 tbsp bourbon (optional)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3½ cups chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly coat it with nonstick spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, ½ cup light brown sugar, ½ tsp cinnamon, and ¼ tsp salt until combined.
  3. Grate the ¾ cup cold butter into the dry ingredients and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 20 minutes, until set and just beginning to turn golden.
  5. While the crust bakes, make the filling. In a saucepan, combine ¾ cup light brown sugar, ½ cup maple syrup, ¾ cup melted butter, ¼ cup heavy cream, and ¼ tsp salt. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tbsp bourbon, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 3½ cups chopped pecans.
  7. Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust and return to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
  8. Cool completely in the pan, then lift out and cut into squares.

Notes

Refrigerate briefly before cutting for cleaner slices. Toast pecans lightly for enhanced flavor if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie bars, dessert bars, holiday dessert, easy baking