Pecan Bars Recipe – Buttery, Nutty & Irresistibly Delicious
If you love the rich, buttery taste of pecan pie but want a more convenient way to enjoy it, this Pecan Bars Recipe is for you! These bars combine a crisp, buttery shortbread crust with a gooey pecan filling that’s perfectly sweet and nutty. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home. With an easy preparation process and irresistible flavor, these pecan bars are bound to become a family favorite.
Nutrition & Instructions
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Active Time: 40 minutes
- Resting Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Cuisine: American, Southern
- Course: Dessert, Snack
- Servings: 12
- Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Saucepan
- Cooling rack
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling:
- ¾ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 ½ cups pecans, roughly chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the flour and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15-18 minutes, until lightly golden. Let it cool while preparing the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, granulated sugar, honey (or maple syrup), heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently. Once the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-4 minutes), remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-22 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and set.
Step 5: Cool & Slice
Allow the bars to cool in the pan for at least 1 hour. Then, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares or bars and serve.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t Overbake – The pecan filling should still be slightly soft when removed from the oven; it will firm up as it cools.
- Use Fresh Pecans – For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality pecans and toast them lightly beforehand for added crunch.
- Chill Before Slicing – For cleaner cuts, refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes before slicing.
- Experiment with Flavors – Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of bourbon for extra depth.
Pairing Suggestions
These pecan bars go well with:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A warm cup of coffee or tea
- A drizzle of melted chocolate for an indulgent touch
Conclusion
This Pecan Bars Recipe delivers all the delicious flavors of a classic pecan pie in a convenient, handheld treat. Buttery, nutty, and caramel-like in taste, these bars are sure to impress at any gathering. Try this recipe today and treat yourself to a dessert that’s both simple and luxurious!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.