Simple Pecan Pie Bars

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If you’re craving the rich, gooey goodness of pecan pie but want something easier to slice and share, these Simple Pecan Pie Bars are your sweet solution. With a buttery shortbread base and a caramel-like pecan filling, they offer all the Southern charm of a holiday pie without the hassle of rolling out dough.

Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a cozy night in with a cup of coffee, these bars deliver on texture and flavor. The crisp crust balances beautifully with the sticky-sweet topping, and the chopped pecans add the crunch that keeps you coming back for more.

What Kind of Pecans Work Best in Pecan Pie Bars?

Halved pecans look beautiful on top, but coarsely chopped pecans are the way to go for these bars. They make slicing easier and ensure every bite is packed with that buttery, nutty crunch. Use fresh pecans if possible—the oils in nuts can go rancid quickly.

Ingredients for the Simple Pecan Pie Bars

Unsalted Butter: This is essential for that rich, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust.

All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the crust, giving it structure and a light, crumbly texture.

Brown Sugar: Adds deep molasses flavor to both the crust and the pecan filling.

Corn Syrup: Creates that gooey, sticky-sweet pecan pie filling we all know and love.

Granulated Sugar: Balances sweetness and helps achieve the perfect set in the filling.

Eggs: Crucial for binding the filling and creating a smooth, custard-like texture.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, aromatic notes.

Salt: Just a pinch balances all that sweetness and deepens the flavor.

Chopped Pecans: The star of the show! Toast them for extra depth.

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How To Make the Simple Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Make the Shortbread Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until fluffy. Mix in flour and a pinch of salt until a crumbly dough forms. Press this evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 baking dish. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

While the crust is baking, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a large bowl. Stir in the chopped pecans last.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Once the crust is ready, pour the pecan mixture over the hot crust and return the dish to the oven. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is just set and doesn’t jiggle when gently shaken.

Step 4: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once fully set, cut them into squares or rectangles. Pro tip: chill for an hour to get clean, sharp edges when slicing.

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How to Store and Serve These Sweet Bars

Pecan pie bars are best served at room temperature, but they also taste amazing slightly chilled. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them—just layer between parchment and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Pecan Pie Bars?

Hot Coffee or Cold Brew

The sweetness of the bars is beautifully balanced by a bold cup of coffee.

Vanilla Ice Cream

Add a scoop on the side to elevate this into a plated dessert.

Whipped Cream

A light dollop cuts through the richness and adds an airy contrast.

Fresh Berries

The tartness of raspberries or strawberries pairs well with the sweet, nutty flavor.

Glass of Milk

Classic and comforting, especially for a midnight snack.

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Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If these Simple Pecan Pie Bars won you over, you’ll want to check out these other Savor Queen favorites:

• Mint Magic Bars with a refreshing chocolate twist.
• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for easy indulgence.
• Salted Caramel Cupcakes if you’re craving caramel in cupcake form.
• Chocolate Banana Bread Pudding for a warm, cozy treat.
• Pecan Pie Cheesecake when you can’t choose between pie and cheesecake.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this sweet treat to your favorite Pinterest board and come back to it anytime the craving hits.

Have you tried it with chocolate chips or a splash of bourbon? Let me know in the comments below!

Need daily dessert ideas? Check out my Pinterest page where I share recipes from Savor Queen every day. Your next craving might just be there!

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