Georgia Pecan Bars
Sweet and nutty Georgia Pecan Bars feature a buttery crust, rich brown sugar, and crunchy pecans, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the oleo (butter) and brown sugar together.
- Allow the mixture to cool, then add the beaten egg and vanilla.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together and add to the wet mixture.
- Stir in the nuts last.
- Pour the batter into a greased flat pan and bake at 325°F for 35 to 40 minutes until the batter shrinks from the sides of the pan.
- Do not overcook.
- Cut into bars while warm and roll in powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adding a dash of cinnamon to the mixture. If you don't have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be a great alternative. Make sure to cool the butter and brown sugar mixture adequately before adding the egg to avoid scrambling. You can also add a touch of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These Georgia Pecan Bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve them at gatherings alongside Summer Salad Julienne or other American recipes for a sweet finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pecan bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To reheat, place the bars in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help maintain their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Georgia Pecan Bars contains roughly 188 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts if you prefer. Each will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the bars. Just make sure to chop the nuts evenly for consistent results.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
If you don't have brown sugar, you can make a substitute by mixing white sugar with a bit of molasses or honey. For every cup of brown sugar needed, mix 1 cup of white sugar with 1 tablespoon of molasses to achieve a similar flavor profile.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The bars are done when they begin to shrink slightly from the sides of the pan and the top is lightly golden. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
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).