Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Pecan Pie Bars offer all the rich, buttery flavor of traditional pecan pie in an easy-to-eat bar form. With a crisp crust, gooey filling, and crunchy pecans and toffee bits, these bars are perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup toffee bits

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter using a pastry cutter or hand mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Step 3: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
4. Step 4: In the same bowl, beat together the sweetened condensed milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Step 5: Stir in the toffee bits and chopped pecans, then spread this filling evenly over the crust.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Step 7: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about one hour, then chill in the refrigerator before cutting and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the filling.
• Substitute toffee bits with chocolate chips for a different flavor twist.
• Use a food processor to blend the crust ingredients quickly and evenly.
• Chilling the bars before cutting helps achieve clean slices without crumbling.

Storage

Store leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter for the crust?

While margarine can be used, butter provides a better flavor and texture for the crust. If you use margarine, choose one with a high fat content and keep in mind the crust may be less crisp.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars can be made a day before serving. Just keep them covered and refrigerated. Chilling enhances the flavors and makes cutting easier.

Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 59 reviews

Delicious pecan pie bars featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich, gooey pecan and toffee filling. Easy to prepare and perfect for dessert or sharing at gatherings.

• Author: Lily
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including cooling and chilling times)
• Yield: 12–16 bars (depending on size of slices) 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Crust

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup butter, softened

Filling

• 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup toffee bits

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by either spraying it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour and ½ cup powdered sugar. Cut in 1 cup softened butter using a pastry cutter or hand mixer until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, forming a dough.
3. Press Crust: Press the crumbly mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared baking pan to form the crust layer. Ensure it comes together solidly as you press to create a sturdy base.
4. Prepare Filling: In the same bowl, beat together 14 oz sweetened condensed milk, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
5. Add Mix-ins: Stir in 1 cup chopped pecans and 1 cup toffee bits into the filling mixture. Mix until evenly distributed.
6. Assemble and Bake: Spread the filling evenly over the crust in the pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown, indicating the filling is set and cooked through.
7. Cool and Chill: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature for about an hour. Then refrigerate to chill completely before cutting into bars and serving. This helps the filling to firm up for cleaner slices.

Notes

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
• Use parchment paper lining for easier removal from the pan.
• Chilling the bars before cutting ensures cleaner, less crumbly slices.

Keywords: pecan pie bars, toffee pecan bars, dessert bars, easy pecan dessert, homemade pecan bars