Grandma’s Secret Pecan Pie Bars Recipe: Sweet Bliss Made Simple

Indulge in a dessert that marries buttery, flaky pastry with gooey pecan pie bars that melt in your mouth.

Every baker dreams of creating a treat so irresistible, it becomes an instant classic.

The rich, caramel-like filling nestled between a crisp shortbread crust promises pure comfort in each bite.

Pecans bring a delightful crunch that elevates this sweet delicacy beyond ordinary desserts.

Southern baking traditions shine through with this simple yet decadent recipe.

These bars are perfect for weekend gatherings, potlucks, or when you crave something truly special.

Prepare to fall in love with a dessert that celebrates the art of simple, delicious baking.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Calories: 290 kcal

Servings: 12

Pecan Pie Bar Ingredient Breakdown

• Refrigerated Pie Crust: Delivers a buttery, flaky base that saves time and provides consistent texture without homemade pastry work.

• Corn Syrup: Creates glossy, rich sweetness and prevents sugar crystallization for smooth filling.
• Brown Sugar: Adds deep caramel undertones and moisture to enhance overall flavor profile.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together and provide structural support for the filling.
• Vanilla Extract: Introduces warm, complex aromatic notes that complement the nutty pecans.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances deeper flavor dimensions.
• Melted Butter: Contributes richness and helps create a silky, luxurious filling texture.

• Pecan Halves: Delivers crunchy texture, nutty flavor, and signature visual appeal to the dessert bars.

Tools for Easy, No-Fuss Pie Bars

• 9×13-inch baking pan: Essential for creating perfectly sized pecan pie bars.
• Large mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking together filling ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Crucial for blending corn syrup, sugar, and eggs without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.
• Spatula: Helps spread filling evenly and scrape bowl clean.
• Sharp knife: Needed for cutting cooled bars into neat squares.
• Oven mitts: Protects hands when handling hot baking pan.

Make Gooey, Nutty Bars in Less Time

• Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350F and grab a 9×13 baking dish. Give it a quick spray of cooking oil to prevent any sticky situations.

• Create the Base

Unroll those pre-made pie crusts and gently press them into the bottom of the pan, making sure they cover every inch like a cozy blanket.

• Whip Up the Gooey Goodness

In a big mixing bowl, blend corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until super smooth. Toss in the pecans and give everything a good stir so they’re all swimming in that delicious mixture.

• Bake to Perfection

Pour the pecan mixture over the crust, spreading it out evenly like you’re painting a delicious masterpiece. Slide the pan into the oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a gorgeous golden brown and the filling looks set.

• Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely – this is crucial for getting those perfect, clean slices. Once cooled, cut into squares and prepare for a flavor explosion.

Tips That Keep the Bottom Firm and Crisp

• Use graham cracker crust for a different texture and richer flavor that complements the pecan filling perfectly.
• Prepare these bars up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container at room temperature for stress-free entertaining.
• Replace traditional pie crust with gluten-free pie crust or almond flour crust to accommodate gluten-sensitive guests without sacrificing taste.
• Elevate these bars by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of bourbon caramel sauce for an extra decadent dessert experience.
• Cut bars into individual portions and freeze for up to 1 month, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for a quick sweet treat anytime you crave something delicious.

Serve Sliced or in Squares

• Sweet Breakfast Companion: Serve these decadent pecan pie bars alongside a steaming cup of coffee or hot cocoa for a delightful morning treat that elevates your breakfast experience.
• Holiday Dessert Platter: Arrange the bars beautifully on a festive serving tray, garnished with extra whole pecans and a light dusting of powdered sugar, perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations.
• Ice Cream Pairing: Top a warm pecan pie bar with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, creating a heavenly contrast between the warm, gooey bar and the cool, creamy vanilla for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Portable Picnic Delight: Pack these bars in a portable container for outdoor adventures, making them an easy-to-carry dessert that travels well and satisfies sweet cravings during picnics or road trips.

Store at Room Temp or in the Fridge

• Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days, keeping them fresh and delicious.
• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze up to 2 months for quick dessert options anytime.
• Refrigerate bars for a firmer texture, perfect for those who enjoy a cooler, more dense treat. Let sit at room temperature 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
• Prepare bars one day in advance to allow flavors to meld and develop a richer, more complex taste profile. The crust will remain crisp and filling will set perfectly.

FAQs

• Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can definitely use homemade pie crust. It will add a more personal touch and potentially enhance the flavor of the pecan pie bars.

• How do I know when the pecan pie bars are fully baked?

The bars are done when the filling is set (no longer jiggly) and the top has turned a golden brown color. A slight wobble is okay, but it shouldn’t look liquidy.

• Do I need to toast the pecans before adding them to the filling?

No toasting is required for this recipe. The pecans will toast and develop flavor during the baking process, saving you an extra step.

• Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Absolutely! These pecan pie bars can be made 1-2 days in advance and stored at room temperature. They actually taste better as the flavors meld together over time.

Effortless Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

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4.6 from 18 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 13 1x

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Description

Pecan pie bars offer a delightful Southern dessert perfect for busy bakers. Buttery graham cracker crust and rich caramel-like filling create an irresistible treat you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) pecan halves
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup (220 g) packed brown sugar
• 1 cup (240 ml) light corn syrup
• ½ cup (226 g or 8 oz) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 refrigerated pie crusts (16 oz or 454 g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, ensuring complete surface coverage.
2. Crust Formation: Carefully spread the pastry dough across the entire pan bottom, gently pressing to create a smooth, seamless foundation without cracks or gaps.
3. Filling Creation: Whisk together corn syrup, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt in a large bowl until the mixture develops a silky, uniform texture that hints at the decadent dessert to come.
4. Pecan Integration: Gently fold pecan halves into the liquid mixture, ensuring each nut becomes completely enrobed and evenly distributed throughout the filling.
5. Assembly and Baking: Pour the pecan-laden filling over the pastry base, using a spatula to create an even layer, then transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the surface turns a rich golden bronze and the filling sets with a firm, minimal jiggle.
6. Cooling and Serving: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely, giving the filling time to solidify. Once cooled, slice into rectangular portions that reveal the pie’s luscious nutty interior and delicate pastry base.

Notes

• Pastry Perfection: Roll out the chilled dough carefully to prevent cracking, ensuring a smooth, even base that won’t break during baking.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Blind bake the pastry for 10 minutes before adding filling to create a crisp, golden crust that resists moisture.
• Pecan Distribution Magic: Gently fold pecans to avoid sinking, ensuring an even spread of nuts throughout the filling for consistent texture.
• Temperature Precision: Let bars cool completely at room temperature to allow filling to set properly, preventing runny or overly soft centers.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 13
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 22 g
• Sodium: 100 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg