Description
Delve into the medley of flavors that our Pecan Pie Bars offer—a combination of a tender buttery crust and a luscious nut-filled filling. Each bar is a slice of heaven featuring a layer of all-purpose flour and powdered sugar crust that effortlessly melts, in your mouth with every bite. The filling is a blend of sugar, fragrant honey and velvety whipping cream that envelopes coarsely chopped pecans creating a satisfyingly crunchy and gooey delight. A touch of vanilla and a sprinkle of sea salt add a layer of complexity to these delectable bars while balancing the sweetness perfectly. Whether it’s for gatherings, celebrations or simply as a treat after a long day these Pecan Pie Bars promise to leave an unforgettable impression, on your taste buds—offering indulgence and comfort in equal measure.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
2 c all-purpose flour
1/2 c powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
12 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, diced
For the Filling:
3/4 c light brown sugar, packed
1/2 c honey
12 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 c heavy whipping cream
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 1/2 c coarsely chopped pecans (14 ounces)
Instructions
To make the crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by lining it with foil or parchment paper leaving some overhang for easy removal later. Give it a spray, with non-stick cooking spray.
In a food processor combine 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Pulse the ingredients until mixed.
Add in butter that has been diced into small pieces (12 tablespoons). Pulse the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Evenly press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Until you notice slight browning at the edges. Once done remove from the oven. Set aside.
Now let’s move on to making the filling:
In a saucepan over medium heat combine packed light brown sugar (3/4 cup), honey (1/2 cup), unsalted butter (12 tablespoons), heavy whipping cream (1/4 cup) and fine sea salt (1/4 teaspoon).
Bring this mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat to simmer for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) along, with chopped pecans (3 1/2 cups). Mix everything together thoroughly.
Pour this mixture over your crust in the baking pan.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until you see the filling bubbling and turning into a caramel color.
After cooking place the pan on a wire rack. Allow it to cool down entirely.
To serve:
Once it has cooled down utilize the foil or parchment paper to lift the baked treat out of the pan.
Transfer it onto a cutting board. Slice, into 2-inch squares.
Enjoy your Pecan Pie Bars at room temperature!
Notes
Transform these Pecan Pie Bars into a gluten-free delight with ease! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust for a reliable 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur Flour are great options. Ensure your powdered sugar is gluten-free as well, as cross-contamination can sometimes occur. With these small tweaks, you’re all set to bake a batch of these scrumptious bars, ensuring that everyone, regardless of dietary needs, can indulge in this sweet, nutty treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
