Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars offer all the rich, nutty flavors of classic pecan pie without the fuss of a traditional pie crust. These bars are perfect for those who love pecan pie but want a simpler way to enjoy it. With a buttery, crumbly base and a sweet, gooey pecan topping, these bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. They’re perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or a sweet treat to enjoy at home!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (or chopped pecans)
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, melted butter, and salt. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly dough. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. Stir in the pecans until evenly coated.
Step 5: Assemble the Bars
Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Bake Again
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares or rectangles.
Step 8: Serve
Serve the pecan pie bars as they are, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Variations
- Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a delicious twist.
- Nut Mix: Try using a mix of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, along with the pecans for added flavor and texture.
- Spiced Version: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Pecan Options: If you prefer a smoother filling, chop the pecans into smaller pieces, or leave them whole for a more textured bar.
- Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well. Cut them into squares, wrap them individually, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them alongside coffee, tea, or a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They’re great for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just a sweet snack at home!
Tips
- Cutting Tips: For clean slices, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
- Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and texture in your bars.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per bar (based on 16 servings)
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 120mg
FAQs
1. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
2. How can I tell when the bars are done?
The bars should be set and slightly puffed in the center. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted.
3. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
Yes, dark corn syrup can be used, which will give the bars a deeper flavor and darker color.
Conclusion
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful and straightforward way to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie without all the hassle. With a buttery crust and a sweet, nutty filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and delicious to eat, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. Treat yourself to these scrumptious bars, and savor the delightful combination of flavors in every bite!