Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars: The Ultimate Easy Dessert
If you love the rich, buttery flavor of traditional pecan pie but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are your new go-to dessert. Perfect for busy bakers, this recipe simplifies the classic pie into easy-to-make bars that are just as indulgent. With a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey pecan topping, these bars are a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Imagine biting into a bar that combines the crunch of toasted pecans with the sweetness of caramel-like filling, all nestled on a melt-in-your-mouth crust. These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving a sweet treat, this recipe is a lifesaver. Plus, they’re easy to transport, making them ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or gift-giving.
Quick Recipe Highlights
- Flavor Profile: A perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors that mimic the classic pecan pie.
- Texture: A crisp shortbread crust paired with a chewy, gooey pecan topping for the ultimate mouthfeel.
- Aroma: Warm, toasty notes of pecans and caramel that fill your kitchen as they bake.
- Visual Appeal: Golden-brown bars with a glossy pecan topping that look as good as they taste.
- Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with minimal steps and no fancy techniques required.
- Special Equipment: Just a mixing bowl, baking dish, and oven—no pie crust rolling needed!
Recipe Overview
- Difficulty Level: This recipe is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a quick dessert. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that tastes like it came from a bakery.
- Category: Dessert, Bars, Holiday Treats.
- Cuisine: American, with roots in Southern pecan pie traditions.
- Cost: Budget-friendly, using pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter, with pecans as the star ingredient.
- Season: Ideal for fall and winter holidays, but delicious year-round.
- Occasion: Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, potlucks, or casual weeknight treats.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves pecan pie but wants to skip the hassle. The buttery shortbread crust is a breeze to make, and the pecan topping comes together in minutes. The result is a dessert that’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for sharing.
One of the best things about this recipe is its convenience. Unlike traditional pecan pie, which requires rolling out a crust and careful baking, these bars are simple and foolproof. You can whip them up in under an hour, and they’re easy to slice and serve. Plus, they’re portable, making them ideal for parties or gifting.
Nutritionally, pecans are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. While these bars are definitely a treat, you can feel good about indulging in moderation. The combination of protein and healthy fats from the pecans also helps keep you satisfied longer.
Socially, these bars are a hit at any gathering. Their classic flavor appeals to all ages, and their presentation is always impressive. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner or bringing them to a potluck, they’re sure to earn rave reviews.
Finally, this recipe is cost-effective and accessible. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and pecans are widely available. Even if you’re on a budget, you can create a dessert that feels luxurious and special.
The Recipe
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
Serves: 12
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly, then press evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Recipe Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute the pecans with toasted oats or seeds.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- These bars freeze well—wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
