How to Create Crunchy Pecan Pie Bars
Looking for the perfect treat that combines simplicity, crunchiness, and the irreplaceable taste of pecan pie? Pecan pie bars are your answer! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this guide will help you create deliciously crunchy pecan pie bars that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the filling:
– 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 3 eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Grab a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This will help you easily remove the bars once they’re done.
2. Make the Crust:
The crust acts as a base for our pecan pie bars and adds to the crunchiness. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Add in 3/4 cup of cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Now, evenly press this mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. Bake it for about 20 minutes, or until it’s golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven but keep the oven on.
3. Prepare the Filling:
While the crust is baking, let’s make the glorious filling. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup of packed brown sugar, 1 cup of light corn syrup, 3 beaten eggs, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Whisk these together until they’re well combined. Next, gently stir in 2 cups of roughly chopped pecans. Once your crust is pre-baked and slightly cooled, pour this filling over the crust.
4. Bake the Pecan Pie Bars:
With the filling nicely settled on the crust, slide the pan back into the oven. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the surface gets a nice, slightly crunchy texture. One way to test if it’s done is by giving the pan a little shake; the center should not jiggle.
5. Cool and Serve:
After taking them out of the oven, let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This patience is critical; it helps them set properly and makes cutting easier. Once cooled, lift the parchment paper to transfer the bars to a cutting board. With a sharp knife, cut into squares or rectangles as you prefer.
6. Enjoy and Storage:
Now the best part, serving and enjoying your homemade crunchy pecan pie bars! They go excellently with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a bit longer shelf life.
Pro Tips:
- Customizing: Feel free to add chocolate chips or a splash of bourbon to the filling for a unique twist.
- Cutting Bars: For cleaner cuts, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it off between cuts.
- Presentation: For a fancier presentation, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the bars before serving.
Conclusion:
Creating crunchy pecan pie bars from scratch might seem daunting at first, but it’s quite straightforward with this guide. They’re a perfect treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to the holiday table. The combination of a buttery crust, a rich filling, and the delightful crunch of pecans makes these bars an irresistible treat. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress. Happy baking!
