Pecan Pie Bars: Your New Favorite Treat in a Bar!

Introduction:

Measurements: Enough for 24 squares of pure delight.

Ever had that craving for pecan pie but thought, "Do I really want to deal with slicing, serving, and, oh, the cleanup?" Well, we’ve got a treat that’s going to blow your pie-loving mind! Say hello to pecan pie bars – all the nutty, gooey goodness of your favorite pie, but in a fun, grab-and-go bar. These little squares of heaven are perfect for potlucks, dessert tables, or just your midnight snack stash (we won’t judge).

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 12 Tbsp unsalted butter, cold and diced

For the Filling:

• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup honey
• 12 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans (about 14 oz)

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Directions: How to Make These Bars of Joy

1. Crust First:

• Preheat that oven to 350˚F (175˚C) – let’s get this party started! Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. Remember to leave a little overhang; it’s like a lifeline for lifting these bars out later.
• In a food processor, pulse together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Throw in the cold, diced butter and pulse until you’ve got a crumbly mixture with some pea-sized chunks.
• Press this crumbly goodness into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes until the edges are just a touch golden.

2. Filling Next:

• In a large saucepan, combine the brown sugar, honey, butter, cream, and salt. Bring this sweet mix to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
• Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract, and fold in those chopped pecans. This is where the magic happens.

3. Bring It All Together:

• Pour that hot pecan mixture over your warm crust. Spread it out evenly and pop it back in the oven for another 20-25 minutes. The filling should be bubbling and have a gorgeous caramel color.

4. Cool and Cut:

• Place your pan on a wire rack and let it cool completely. Once cooled, use your parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into 2-inch squares and voilà – pecan pie bars ready to devour!

Side Dish Ideas: Pairings Made in Heaven

While these pecan pie bars are absolute perfection on their own, why not up the ante? Here are a few side dish ideas that will make your dessert spread unforgettable:

• Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic pairing. The cool creaminess of the ice cream complements the warm, nutty flavors of the bars.
• Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries like raspberries or blackberries cuts through the sweetness, balancing the richness.
• Whipped Cream: Simple, fluffy, and delightful. A dollop of whipped cream adds a light touch to these decadent bars.

Photo bytexas sasie lady

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 240 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 35mg
• Sodium: 70mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 13g
• Protein: 2g

Prep and Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Conclusion: Why These Bars Are a Must-Try

If you’ve ever loved pecan pie (and who hasn’t?), these pecan pie bars are about to become your new best friend. Easier to make, easier to eat, and just as delicious – they’re the perfect solution for those who want their pie and want to eat it too, with minimal fuss. So, next time you’re in charge of dessert, skip the pie and go straight for these bars. They’re guaranteed to be a hit, leaving everyone asking for the recipe.