Chewy Pecan Pie Bars
Chewy Pecan Pie Bars combine rich, sweet filling with crunchy pecans, offering a delightful treat perfect for dessert gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave a comforting, nutty snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 15x10 1/2-inch jelly roll pan.
- In a medium bowl, with a fork, mix baking powder, 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, and 2/3 cup packed brown sugar.
- Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in 1/2 cup butter or margarine until the mixture resembles very fine crumbs.
- Pat the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, with a mixer at medium speed, beat eggs until foamy.
- Beat in 1 1/2 cups dark corn syrup, 2 teaspoons vanilla, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup flour until well blended.
- Pour the egg mixture over the partially baked layer; sprinkle with 2 1/2 cups chopped pecans.
- Bake for 55 minutes longer or until set.
- Cool in the pan.
- Cut into bars and store in refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using light brown sugar instead of dark. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute with sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely. Ensure the butter is softened for easier mixing. If you want extra texture, toast the chopped pecans lightly before adding them to the filling. This recipe is part of classic American recipes that are perfect for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan pie bars are delightful on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They also complement well with the flavors of Southern Applesauce Cake, making for a great dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the chewy pecan pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you have leftovers, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat, or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge. They can also be frozen for up to three months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chewy Pecan Pie Bars contains roughly 264 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 25g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute walnuts or even mixed nuts if you prefer. Just be sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even distribution in the filling.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these pecan pie bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose has a good binding agent to maintain the texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).