These easy pecan pie bars have a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling. They deliver the classic flavor of pecan pie in neat dessert bars that are easy to slice and share at Thanksgiving, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love These Easy Pecan Pie Bars
- Easy to serve: Slice the bars into squares for a simple dessert tray.
- Buttery shortbread base: The crisp, tender crust balances the sweet pecan filling.
- Great for holidays: Make them ahead so they have time to cool and set before serving.
- Classic flavor: Brown sugar, vanilla, and pecans create a familiar pecan-pie taste.
Easy Pecan Pie Bars
Easy pecan pie bars with a buttery shortbread crust and a sweet, nutty filling, perfect for Thanksgiving dessert trays.
Ingredients
For the shortbread crust
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the pecan filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) light corn syrup
- 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (57 g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups (about 220 g) chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the pan: Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-by-13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a little overhang to lift out the bars.
- Make the crust: Mix the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs and holds together when pressed.
- Press and bake: Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
- Mix the filling: In a bowl, whisk the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until well combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Fill and bake: Pour the pecan mixture over the warm crust and spread the pecans evenly. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the edges are set and the center has only a slight jiggle.
- Cool completely: Place the pan on a cooling rack and let the bars cool completely, about 2 hours, before lifting them out and slicing. Allow about 2 hours for cooling; this cooling time is included in the total time shown above.
- Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife to cut into 24 bars. Wipe the knife between cuts for cleaner edges.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Bars
- Line the pan: Parchment makes it easier to lift the cooled bars out for neat slicing.
- Do not overbake: The filling should be set around the edges with a slight jiggle in the center; it firms as it cools.
- Cool fully before slicing: Cutting while warm can make the filling run and the bars crumble.
- Use fresh pecans: Taste the pecans before baking to make sure they are fresh and not rancid.
Easy Variations
- Extra crunch: Keep some pecans in larger pieces and sprinkle them over the filling before baking.
- Warm spice: Add a small pinch of cinnamon to the filling.
- Chocolate: Sprinkle a small handful of mini chocolate chips over the filling if you enjoy chocolate with pecans.
How to Store Pecan Pie Bars
Once completely cool, place the bars in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to 4 days. Let them sit at room temperature briefly before serving, or warm individual portions for a few seconds if desired. For longer storage, freeze the bars in a single layer until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make pecan pie bars ahead of time?
Yes. Bake and cool them completely, then cover and refrigerate. Slice shortly before serving for the neatest edges.
How do I know when the filling is done?
The edges should look set, and the middle should have only a slight jiggle rather than a liquid wave. The filling will firm further as it cools.
Can I use whole pecans instead of chopped pecans?
Yes. Whole or halved pecans can be used, but arrange them evenly so each bar is easier to cut. Chopped pecans make slicing simpler.
Why do the bars need to cool completely?
The filling is soft when hot. Cooling gives it time to set so the bars hold their shape when sliced.
More Thanksgiving Recipes
Planning a holiday dessert table or dinner menu? Pair these pecan pie bars with more classic Thanksgiving favorites from Mealorra:
- Classic Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipe
- Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce
- Easy Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
- Easy Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
- Easy Baked Mac and Cheese
- Easy Homemade Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
Final Thoughts
These easy pecan pie bars bring the flavor of a classic pecan pie into a shareable dessert bar. Make them ahead, let them cool fully, and slice them when you are ready to serve.