Rich Pecan Pie Bars with Pie Crust – Alright with Me
Rich Pecan Pie Bars with Pie Crust are nothing short of a culinary delight, perfect for those who crave the rich, nutty flavors of traditional pecan pie without the fuss of individual servings. Whenever I make these bars, it feels like a celebration, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday get-together. The combination of buttery pie crust and sweet pecan filling is irresistible and incredibly satisfying. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be hooked!
Reasons to try it
What makes these Rich Pecan Pie Bars so special? For starters, they take the beloved classic pecan pie and transform it into a convenient bar form, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these bars are quick to prepare and budget-friendly.
They come together effortlessly, ideal for last-minute gatherings or even a cozy evening with a cup of coffee. The delightful mix of textures, with a flaky crust and a gooey filling studded with crunchy pecans, makes every bite a little slice of heaven.
"These bars are a game-changer! I brought them to a family gathering, and they disappeared in minutes—everyone raved about them!"
The cooking process explained
Making Rich Pecan Pie Bars is simpler than you might think. You’ll start by preparing your crust, followed by mixing the delicious filling that will make these bars truly memorable. You only need a handful of ingredients, which makes this not only a quick recipe but also a delightful one that you can enjoy any time.
What you’ll need
For this recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pkg (16 oz) refrigerated pie dough (contains 2 crusts)
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 tsp salt
(For a twist, consider using a different type of nut or adding chocolate chips for extra richness!)
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Unroll one of the pie crusts and press it into the bottom of a greased 9×13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Stir in the pecan halves and salt until well-distributed.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the baking dish.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving these Rich Pecan Pie Bars, think creativity! You can enjoy them plain for a classic taste, or elevate the experience with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with coffee or your favorite tea, making them a perfect afternoon treat.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your pecan pie bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw in the fridge overnight, or reheat in a low oven for a warm treat.
Helpful cooking tips
- Use chilled ingredients. Start with chilled eggs and butter to achieve the best texture in your filling.
- Don’t overbake. Keep an eye on the bars in the oven; the edges should be firm but the center should still have a little jiggle.
- Let them cool. For clean cuts, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Creative twists
Want to switch up the flavor of your pecan pie bars? Here are a few fun variations:
- Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars: Fold in some chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent twist.
- Maple Pecan Bars: Substitute half of the corn syrup with maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavor.
- Nut Mix: Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique taste and texture.
Your questions answered
How long do these bars take to make?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, and they require about 30–35 minutes of baking, making this a quick and easy dessert.
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust will add a personal touch and can enhance the flavor of your bars.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, they freeze well! Just make sure they are wrapped tightly to prevent freezer burn.
With these Rich Pecan Pie Bars, you’re sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, with the added bonus of being straightforward and quick to make!
Rich Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 pkg 1 pkg (16 oz) refrigerated pie dough (contains 2 crusts)
For the filling
- 1 cup 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
- 3 large 3 large eggs Use chilled for best texture.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups 1 1/2 cups pecan halves Can substitute different nuts if desired.
- 1/4 tsp 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Unroll one of the pie crusts and press it into the bottom of a greased 9x13 baking dish.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Stir in the pecan halves and salt until well-distributed.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the baking dish.
Baking
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
- Allow to cool before slicing into bars.
