Easy Pecan Squares
Deliciously crunchy pecan squares with a rich, buttery flavor and sweet caramel notes, perfect for snacking or sharing at gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, brown sugar, and egg; beat well.
- Add vanilla, salt, pecans, and self-rising flour; mix until combined.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Do not overcook.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the batter. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can create your own by mixing 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt. Make sure to chop the pecans roughly for a nice texture in every bite. This recipe is a great use for leftover pecans from other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan squares are delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. For a complete dessert experience, consider serving them alongside a slice of Kay's Strawberry Bread or with the Best Darn Salad for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pecan squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Pecan Squares contains roughly 288 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 14g 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 regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour. Simply add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to each cup of all-purpose flour to achieve the desired rise in your pecan squares.
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make these pecan squares a day in advance. Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste when you serve them the next day.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you're looking for alternatives to pecans, walnuts or hazelnuts are great substitutes that will still provide a rich flavor and texture. You can also omit the nuts entirely for a nut-free version of this recipe.
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).