Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Satisfy your sweet tooth this Thanksgiving with these Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars! Packed with gooey, caramel-like pecan filling on a buttery crust, these delightful bars are a simpler twist on the classic pecan pie. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, they'll save you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor. Make this festive treat a staple on your dessert table!
A Perfect Thanksgiving Treat
Thanksgiving is synonymous with indulgent desserts, and pecan pie is a holiday classic. However, traditional pecan pie can be a labor of love. That's where these Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars come in! They encapsulate all the rich flavors of pecan pie while streamlining the preparation process.
These bars are not only easier to make, but they also present beautifully, making them a standout addition to any dessert table. With a buttery crust topped by a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling, they are sure to impress your guests. The easy-to-follow steps allow you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the festivities.
Versatility at Its Best
One of the best aspects of these pecan pie bars is their versatility. While they are perfect for Thanksgiving, they can also be enjoyed year-round. Whether it's a summer barbecue or a cozy winter gathering, these bars fit any occasion. You can even customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips or other nuts for a unique twist.
Additionally, these bars are great for meal prepping. Bake a batch ahead of time, store them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for days. Their delightful flavors only seem to get better with time, making them an excellent choice for those who love to plan ahead.
Make It Your Own
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! The filling is adaptable, allowing you to switch up the ingredients based on your preferences. Consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice notes, or try swapping the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different crunch.
If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute part of the corn syrup with maple syrup or agave nectar. This simple adjustment can elevate the flavor profile and give it a unique twist that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix in a bowl and pour into the crust.
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until the dough holds together.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Combine and Bake
Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until set.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfect Bars
To ensure your Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars turn out perfectly, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Mis-measuring can lead to improper texture, so using a kitchen scale for the flour and sugar can help achieve consistency.
When preparing the crust, don't be too aggressive when mixing; a gentle hand will keep it tender and flaky. Also, pressing it firmly into the baking dish will help it hold together through baking, ensuring a delicious foundation for your pecan filling.
Serving Suggestions
Once your bars have cooled completely, they can be served plain or dressed up for extra flair. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate these bars into a decadent dessert.
For added flavor, drizzle warm caramel sauce or melted chocolate over the top before serving. This allows guests to choose how they'd like to enjoy their bars and adds an attractive visual element to your dessert spread.
Storage and Shelf Life
These pecan pie bars are perfect for storing! Once completely cooled, cut them into squares and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerated for up to a week.
If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing the bars. Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making them a delightful treat that's always ready to serve!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
→ How do I store the bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
Satisfy your sweet tooth this Thanksgiving with these Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars! Packed with gooey, caramel-like pecan filling on a buttery crust, these delightful bars are a simpler twist on the classic pecan pie. Perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners, they'll save you time in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor. Make this festive treat a staple on your dessert table!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 12.0
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How-To Steps
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Mix until the dough holds together. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9x9 inch baking dish.
In another bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until set.
Once baked, allow to cool completely before cutting into bars. Enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 3g