Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
- 1 c. unsalted butter
at room temp, 2 sticks
- 1/2 c. packed brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 2 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
- 1/2 c. unsalted butter
cut into pieces, 1 stick
- 1 c. packed dark brown sugar
- 1/3 c. honey
- 2 tbsp. bourbon
- 2 tbsp. heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- 3 c. pecan halves
roughly chopped
Directions
- 1
Heat oven to 350F. Lightly coat 9- by 13-in baking pan with cooking spray. Line with parchment, leaving an overhang on two long sides; spray parchment.
- 2
Make crust: Using an electric mixer, beat butter, brown sugar and salt until light and fluffy. Reduce mixer speed and gradually mix in flour until small clumps form. Press into bottom of prepared pan. Using fork, poke holes all over then bake until light golden brown, 20 to 25 min. Let cool while making filling.
- 3
Make filling: In small saucepan on low, combine butter, sugar, honey, bourbon, heavy cream and salt. Increase heat and bring to a boil; boil for 2 min. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, then fold in pecans.
- 4
Pour mixture over baked crust, return to oven and bake until nuts are golden brown and edges are bubbling, 25 to 30 min. Let cool completely in pan, then use overhangs to transfer to a cutting board and cut into pieces.
Pecan Pie Bars
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About this Recipe
Searching for that classic pecan pie taste but need an easier, sliceable dessert that skips the corn syrup? These Pecan Pie Bars are your answer, delivering rich, gooey sweetness perfect for any occasion, especially Thanksgiving.
What truly sets these bars apart is their decadent filling, crafted with a thoughtful blend of dark brown sugar and honey instead of traditional corn syrup. This creates an unparalleled depth of flavor and that signature gooey texture we all crave, nestled atop a buttery, tender crust.
You'll bite into a delightful contrast: a buttery, almost shortbread-like crust providing the perfect foundation for the star of the show – a rich, caramelized pecan filling. Each bar boasts a symphony of textures, from the satisfying crunch of the roughly chopped pecans to the yielding, gooey brown sugar and honey mixture that coats them perfectly. The subtle warmth from the bourbon, complemented by pure vanilla extract, rounds out the sweetness, making every bite a comforting and deeply satisfying experience. This generous recipe yields 20 servings, making it an ideal choice for sharing at gatherings or simply ensuring you have plenty to enjoy.
Feel free to experiment with this versatile recipe. While pecans are classic, you could try an equal amount of walnuts or a mix of nuts for a different twist. If you prefer to omit the bourbon, simply replace it with an additional 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or even a little extra vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic option.
These Pecan Pie Bars are an ideal dessert for holiday gatherings, especially as an easy Thanksgiving treat, or simply when you're craving a comforting sweet bite. Serve them simply on their own or alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.