Southern Pecan Pie Bars: Irresistibly Sweet and Nutty Treats

Experience the charm of the South with these decadent Southern Pecan Pie Bars. Featuring a buttery crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling, this delightful dessert offers all the comfort and flavors you’d expect from a traditional pecan pie, but with the ease of a bar. Perfect for gatherings or a simple indulgence, these bars are a surefire crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Southern Pecan Pie Bars bring the classic flavors of pecan pie into a convenient, portable form. The buttery shortbread crust is the perfect foundation for the sweet, caramelized pecan topping, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply looking to enjoy a southern delicacy, these bars are the ideal treat.

With their rich taste and beautiful presentation, Southern Pecan Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of flavor and tradition. They capture the essence of southern hospitality, making them a wonderful addition to any dessert table.

Context/Background

Pecan pie has been a beloved southern staple since the early 20th century, often associated with festive occasions and family gatherings. Its origins can be traced to French settlers in New Orleans, who used the nuts native to the region. Pecan Pie Bars offer a modern twist on this tradition, making it easier to enjoy this classic dessert at any time.

While classic pecan pie requires careful handling of pie crust, these bars simplify the process without sacrificing any of the decadent flavors. They are an innovation on a time-honored recipe, allowing for quicker preparation while maintaining the irresistible taste of the original.

Recipe Details

Serves: 12

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
• 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups pecan halves

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. For the crust, combine 1 cup softened butter, flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl until crumbly. Press into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
3. While the crust is baking, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves.
4. Pour the pecan mixture over the hot crust. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
5. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Perfect Southern Pecan Pie Bars

• Ensure the crust is fully baked and golden before adding the filling to prevent sogginess.
• Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to allow the filling to set properly.
• Toasting the pecans slightly before using can enhance their flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Pecan Pie Bars are delightful on their own, but they pair excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a touch of elegance, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover Southern Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week. If freezing, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Final Thoughts

Southern Pecan Pie Bars capture the essence of a beloved classic with minimal fuss. Their sweet, nutty flavor and irresistible texture make them a must-try for any dessert lover. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, these bars are bound to become a family favorite.

Recipe Notes

• You can substitute light corn syrup with dark corn syrup for a deeper flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.
• For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling.