Easy Pecan Bars
Sweet and crunchy pecan bars feature a buttery cake mix base topped with a rich pecan filling, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings and serving at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13 x 9-inch pan.
- Set aside 1 cup of the cake mix for the filling.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the remaining cake mix, softened margarine, and slightly beaten egg to make the crust.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- In a separate bowl, mix the remaining eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla to prepare the filling.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the filling over the crust in the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until the filling is set and golden.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of margarine. If you're short on time, pre-made crusts can work as a quick substitute. To enhance the nuttiness, toast the pecans lightly before mixing them into the filling. Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling, and feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips for additional sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan bars are delightful on their own, but they pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside sweet treats like Jane'S Extra Easy Strawberry Pie or Better Than Ever Banana Cream Pie. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee for a splendid afternoon treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. If you prefer to freeze them, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag, where they can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Pecan Bars contains roughly 390 calories, with 6g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value) and iron (10% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly. Make sure to chop the nuts into similar sizes for even distribution in the filling.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when the filling is set and has a golden color on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just make sure to let them cool completely before cutting and serving for the best 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).