Just For Kids: Kiddie Bars
Delicious kid-friendly pecan bars with a buttery, nutty flavor and a soft, chewy texture, perfect for snack time or school lunchboxes. Easy to make and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour melted margarine into an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking pan and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, baking soda, and chopped pecans.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined.
- Stir the eggs into the brown sugar mixture along with the vanilla extract.
- Pour the mixture over the melted margarine in the baking pan without stirring.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Cut into bars and sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To make these Kiddie Bars even more delightful, consider substituting walnuts for pecans if preferred. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. Ensure the eggs are at room temperature to achieve a fluffier texture. Don't skip the powdered sugar topping; it adds a sweet finishing touch that kids love!
Serving Suggestions
These Kiddie Bars are perfect for an after-school treat and pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also make a great addition to birthday parties or school lunches. For an extra special touch, serve them alongside fresh fruit or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Kiddie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until warmed through, to enjoy them soft and gooey again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Just For Kids: Kiddie Bars contains roughly 87 calories, with 0g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g 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?
Absolutely! If your kids have nut allergies or simply prefer another flavor, you can replace pecans with almonds, walnuts, or even omit the nuts altogether for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
The bars should be lightly golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet with batter, they need more time. Avoid overbaking to keep them soft.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the Kiddie Bars a day in advance. Just allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh and delicious, making them a great option for prepping for gatherings.
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).