Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  2. Make the Crust Mixture:
    In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until the dough is crumbly and evenly combined.
  3. Press the Crust into the Pan:
    Press the dough into the prepared baking dish to create an even layer. Make sure to press it firmly into the corners.
  4. Bake the Crust:
    Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the Filling

  1. Whisk the Filling Ingredients:
    In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
  2. Add the Pecans:
    Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed in the filling mixture.

Assemble and Bake

  1. Pour the Filling Over the Crust:
    Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
  2. Bake the Bars:
    Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
  3. Cool Completely:
    Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting. This ensures the filling sets properly and slices cleanly.

Serving Suggestions

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

  • Classic: Serve as-is for a simple, decadent treat.
  • With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
  • Ice Cream: Pair with a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a restaurant-style dessert.

Variations of the Recipe

  1. Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
  2. Maple Pecan Bars: Replace the corn syrup with maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor.
  3. Nut Mix Bars: Substitute part of the pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for variety.
  4. Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust.

Health Benefits Notes

  • Nutrient-Rich Pecans: Pecans are high in healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any dessert.
  • Portion Control: These bars are pre-portioned, making it easier to enjoy in moderation.
  • Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels in the filling for a slightly less sweet treat.

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare the bars up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated.

2. How do I store leftover bars?

Store leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Can I freeze pecan pie bars?

Yes, these bars freeze well. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

4. Do I need to toast the pecans?

Toasting the pecans is optional but enhances their flavor and crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes before using.

Conclusion

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie but wants a faster, easier way to make it. These bars are simple to prepare, easy to serve, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or as a sweet snack, they’re a delicious and stress-free treat. Try them today and savor the sweet, buttery goodness of homemade pecan pie in bar form!