Pecan Bar Cookies
These rich pecan bar cookies feature a buttery crust and sweet pecan filling, making them perfect for gatherings, holidays, or an indulgent treat with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine melted butter and brown sugar in a medium mixing bowl; beat in eggs and vanilla.
- Gradually add self-rising flour, mixing well.
- Stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
- Allow to cool; cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using brown butter instead of regular butter. You can substitute half of the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty twist. If you don't have self-rising flour, combine all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt. These Pecan Bar Cookies are also delicious with a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Pecan Bar Cookies as a delightful dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a cup of coffee. They pair beautifully with an Orange Julius (Fruit Frosty) for a refreshing contrast. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch when serving at gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Pecan Bar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm in the oven at low heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pecan Bar Cookies contains roughly 234 calories, with 1g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 11g 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 different nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts. Each type of nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to the bars. Just ensure that the nuts are chopped to a similar size for even distribution in the batter.
How do I prevent the bars from sticking to the pan?
To prevent sticking, make sure to grease the baking pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal once the bars are cooled, ensuring they retain their shape when cut.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! To double the recipe, use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the bars while baking, as they may take a few extra minutes. A 15 x 10-inch pan works well for a doubled batch, yielding more delicious bars to enjoy.
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).