Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan pie is a classic dessert that holds a cherished spot in many hearts, especially during the holidays. But what if you could enjoy all the flavors and textures of a traditional pecan pie without the hassle of rolling out dough or managing a pie dish? Enter Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars—a simplified, handheld version of the iconic dessert that’s just as decadent and delicious.

These bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a gooey pecan filling, delivering the perfect balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and buttery goodness. The recipe is incredibly easy, requiring only basic ingredients and a single baking dish, making it ideal for novice bakers or anyone short on time. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday party, potluck, or casual family gathering, these pecan pie bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

Let’s dive into the recipe and uncover all the tips, tricks, and variations to make these bars your new go-to dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No pie crust rolling or fussy techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy.
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars are portable, easy to slice, and great for potlucks or parties.
• Classic Flavors: All the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie in a simplified format.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance, as they taste even better the next day.
• Customizable: Add chocolate, bourbon, or different nuts for a personal twist.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 55 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 23g

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Pecan Filling

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, flour, powdered sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
• Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

• In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, melted butter, and salt until smooth and well combined.
• Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

• Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
• Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

• Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, about 1 hour. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice cleanly.
• Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Slice into 16 squares or rectangles and serve.

Ingredient Background

Pecans

Pecans are the star of this recipe, providing a toasty, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. High-quality pecans enhance the overall flavor, so opt for fresh, unsalted nuts.

Corn Syrup

Corn syrup creates the gooey, caramel-like texture of the filling. Light corn syrup is preferred for its milder flavor, but dark corn syrup can be used for a deeper, molasses-like taste.

Butter

Butter is used in both the crust and the filling, adding richness and ensuring a tender, crumbly base. Unsalted butter allows for better control of seasoning.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar complements the pecans with its warm, molasses undertones, adding depth and sweetness to the filling.

Technique Tips

Pre-Bake the Crust: Pre-baking the crust ensures it doesn’t become soggy when the filling is added.

Use Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper makes it easy to lift the bars out for slicing and serving.

Chop the Pecans Evenly: Uniformly chopped pecans ensure even distribution and prevent overly large chunks in any one bite.

Cool Completely: Allowing the bars to cool fully is crucial for clean slices and a properly set filling.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Tartlets: Use the crust and filling to make individual mini tarts in a muffin tin.
• Layered Dessert: Crumble the bars and layer them with whipped cream in dessert glasses for a trifle-like treat.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble leftover bars over vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Festive Shapes: Use cookie cutters to create festive shapes like stars or hearts once the bars are cooled.

Additional Tips for Success

Room-Temperature Eggs: Using room-temperature eggs helps the filling mix more evenly and bake consistently.

Avoid Overmixing: When making the crust, mix just until combined to avoid a tough texture.

Check for Doneness: The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when removed from the oven.

Store Properly: Keep the bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the top after the bars have cooled for a visually appealing finish.

Maple Pecan Bars: Replace the corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness and a slightly earthy flavor. For even more maple flair, sprinkle a touch of maple sugar on top before baking.

Bourbon Pecan Bars: Stir 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon into the filling for a subtle, boozy kick that complements the sweetness. The alcohol cooks off during baking, leaving just the flavor.

Nut Blend Bars: Use a mix of pecans, walnuts, and almonds for a more complex and dynamic flavor. Lightly toast the nuts beforehand to bring out their natural richness.

Coconut Pecan Bars: Mix in 1/2 cup of shredded unsweetened coconut for added texture and a hint of tropical flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pecans.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration:
Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. To keep them fresh, place parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking and maintain their shape.

Freezing:
To Freeze: Arrange the bars on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. This method prevents them from clumping together.

Thawing Tips: Thaw the bars overnight in the refrigerator to retain their firm texture. For best results, serve chilled or at room temperature after thawing.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual bars in 10-second intervals, but avoid overdoing it as the filling can become too soft.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Reduce Sugar: Cut back on the brown sugar and use unsweetened pecans to lower the overall sweetness while still keeping the rich flavor.

Whole-Grain Crust: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat or spelt flour in the crust. These options add fiber and a slightly nutty taste that complements the pecans.

Natural Sweeteners: Substitute honey, agave nectar, or coconut sugar for the corn syrup and brown sugar. These alternatives give the filling a more natural and less processed sweetness.

Butter Substitution: Replace half or all of the butter in the crust with coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. The coconut oil adds a subtle flavor while maintaining the buttery texture.

Add Superfoods: Sprinkle in flaxseeds, chia seeds, or a tablespoon of almond meal to the crust for an extra nutrient boost.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Holiday Parties: Arrange the bars on a festive platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a holiday dessert table. To make them even more festive, top each bar with a whole pecan or drizzle with colored icing.

Potluck Favorite: Bring a batch to potlucks or gatherings in a 9×13-inch baking dish for easy transport. The bars are self-contained and easy to serve, making them a crowd favorite.

Brunch Addition: Pair the bars with coffee, tea, or a frothy latte for a sweet addition to a brunch spread. For variety, offer them alongside muffins, scones, and fresh fruit.

Edible Gifts: Wrap individual bars in decorative cellophane or parchment paper, then tie them with a ribbon or twine for a thoughtful, homemade gift. Include a handwritten tag with storage tips for a personal touch.

Picnic Treat: Pack the bars in a sealed container for an outdoor gathering. They’re portable, sturdy, and a perfect sweet treat after a savory picnic meal.

Special Equipment

Mixing Bowls: Use separate bowls for the crust and filling to streamline preparation and keep the process organized. Choose medium-sized bowls with high sides to prevent spilling.

9×13-Inch Baking Dish: This size ensures even baking, the right thickness for the bars, and easy slicing. A glass dish works well for even heat distribution, while a metal pan helps create a firmer crust.

Parchment Paper: Lining the baking dish with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also makes it easier to lift the bars out in one piece for slicing. It’s a game-changer for neat and even servings.

Offset Spatula: Perfect for spreading the crust evenly and ensuring the filling is distributed uniformly across the top. An offset spatula also makes cleanup simpler by minimizing spills.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of nut?
   Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or a mix of nuts can be used instead of pecans.
2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   Yes, these bars taste even better the next day and can be stored in the refrigerator.
4. What can I use instead of corn syrup?
   Maple syrup, honey, or agave syrup can replace corn syrup, though the texture may vary slightly.
5. How do I prevent the crust from sticking?
   Line your baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring the sides are covered for easy removal.
6. Can I freeze the bars after baking?
   Yes, wrap them individually or store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
7. How do I know when the filling is set?
   The filling should be firm around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center.
8. Can I add chocolate to the recipe?
   Absolutely! Mix chocolate chips into the filling or drizzle melted chocolate over the top for extra indulgence.

Conclusion

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone seeking the flavors of a traditional pecan pie without the fuss. With their buttery crust, gooey filling, and satisfying crunch, these bars deliver the perfect bite every time. Their ease of preparation, versatility, and timeless appeal make them a standout addition to any dessert lineup.

Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a potluck, or just because, these pecan pie bars are sure to impress. Customize them to your taste, serve them with your favorite beverages, and enjoy the compliments that follow. Try this recipe today and experience the joy of a classic pecan pie in a simplified, bar-friendly format!

Print