Kathy'S Pecan Pie Bars
Kathy's Pecan Pie Bars offer a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, featuring a buttery crust and a rich, sweet filling. The combination of brown sugar and vanilla creates a warm, inviting flavor perfect for gatherings or a cozy dessert at home. Ideal for those who love nutty desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour and 3 tablespoons of brown sugar in a bowl.
- Cut in 1/2 cup of butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Pat the mixture into an ungreased 11 x 7 inch pan.
- Bake at 375° for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of light. If you run out of butter, coconut oil can be a good substitute, though it may slightly alter the texture. To prevent the crust from becoming too hard, avoid overmixing when cutting in the butter. For a nutty twist, add chopped pecans to the crust mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These pecan pie bars are delightful when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. They also pair beautifully with coffee or tea for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate for added sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pecan pie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual pieces for about 20 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kathy'S Pecan Pie Bars contains roughly 201 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 5g 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 the recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantity to your preference. Chopped walnuts will give a slightly more earthy taste, while almonds will add a nice crunch.
What can I do if my crust is too crumbly?
If your crust mixture is too crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of cold water or milk at a time until it holds together better. Be careful not to add too much, as you want the crust to remain flaky, similar to that of Soft Molasses Cookies.
How can I make these bars more festive for holidays?
To add a holiday flair, consider mixing in spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling. You can also top the bars with a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped candied pecans for extra texture and flavor, making them perfect 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).