Pecan Pie Bars
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.
28 Servings
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 9x13-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.