If you’re searching for a dessert that combines rich, nutty flavors with a delightfully simple prep, you have to try this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe. These bars deliver all the gooey goodness of traditional pecan pie in an easier format that’s perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings. With a buttery crust, a sweet, silky filling packed with crunchy pecans, and just the right balance of sweetness, these bars promise a slice of homemade comfort that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, once you make this recipe, it’ll become your go-to when you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the short list fool you. Each ingredient in this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of texture, flavor, and that gorgeous golden look everyone will love. From the flour that forms the base to the rich pecans that provide crunch, these components are straightforward yet essential for success.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy foundation for a buttery yet tender crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough without overpowering it.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for crust): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar: Provides a deep, caramel-like sweetness for the filling.
- 1 cup corn syrup: Gives the filling that classic gooey and shiny finish.
- 4 large eggs: Binds the filling together and adds richness.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and a floral note that elevates the pecan flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for filling): Balances the sweetness in the filling perfectly.
- 2 cups chopped pecans: The star ingredient that adds crunch and nuttiness.
How to Make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking a crust that’s firm but tender and a filling that sets perfectly. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to ensure an easy removal once your bars are done.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt for the crust. Mix until the dough turns crumbly but can be pressed together. This is where the magic of a flaky, buttery crust begins, creating an irresistible base for your bars.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Press the dough evenly into your prepared pan. Baking it for 20 minutes until it turns a lovely light golden color means you’ll have a sturdy base that won’t get soggy under the filling but remains tender enough to enjoy with every bite.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl until smooth and well combined. This mixture will transform into the luscious, caramel-like filling that’s the hallmark of the Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe.
Step 5: Add the Pecans
Gently stir in the chopped pecans, making sure each nut is evenly coated. These pecans give the bars their signature crunch and nutty depth, turning every bite into a sensory delight.
Step 6: Combine and Bake
Pour this filling mixture over the hot crust straight from the oven. This step helps the filling settle nicely into the crust. Return it to the oven and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes until the center is just set – not too jiggly, but soft and inviting.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This is important for clean slices and that perfect chewy texture. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, and cut into 24 squares to share (or to keep all to yourself!).
How to Serve Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
These bars are showstoppers all on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a touch of elegance. For an extra decadent experience, try drizzling some melted chocolate or a swirl of caramel over the top. A few whole pecans can add that artisan bakery look.
Side Dishes
Pair these bars with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the sweet, nutty richness. A hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk also balances the sweetness perfectly, making for a cozy treat time.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider cutting the bars into bite-sized squares for parties or serving them on a rustic wooden board with fresh fruit and nuts for a stunning dessert platter. Wrapping individual bars in parchment and tying them with a festive ribbon makes a thoughtful homemade gift everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week. Room temperature keeps them soft and chewy, while refrigeration firms them up slightly, which some people prefer.
Freezing
You can freeze these pecan pie bars wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain that fresh-baked flavor and texture.
Reheating
If you’d like to enjoy the bars warm, simply pop a square in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or reheat them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes. They taste amazing with just a hint of warming, which revives that gooey filling.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or a mix of your favorite nuts can work well in this recipe. Just be aware that pecans have a softer texture that’s classic for this dessert, so substitutions might alter the final bite slightly.
Is corn syrup necessary in the filling?
Corn syrup helps create that signature sticky, glossy filling crumbly pies often lack. If you want, you can substitute with golden syrup or light maple syrup, but it may change the texture a bit.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes a binder like xanthan gum. The texture may vary slightly, but the bars will still be delicious.
How do I know when the filling is done baking?
The center should be just set, meaning it won’t jiggle much when gently shaken. Avoid overbaking to keep that lovely gooey texture that makes these pecan bars irresistible.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare and bake the crust a day in advance. Just keep it covered at room temperature and add the filling right before baking the final bars.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dessert that’s easy, utterly delicious, and loved by everyone, do yourself a favor and try this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe. It takes the classic pecan pie to a new level of simplicity without sacrificing any of the rich, buttery, nutty magic. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or a cozy treat at home, these bars are bound to become a favorite that you’ll happily make again and again.
Print
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars feature a buttery, crumbly crust topped with a rich, gooey pecan filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a classic pecan pie flavor without the fuss of making a traditional pie.
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and allow for easy removal of the bars.
- Make the crust dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix together until the mixture becomes crumbly but holds together when pressed.
- Bake the crust: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until the crust turns lightly golden and is set.
- Prepare the filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, 1 cup corn syrup, 4 large eggs, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until smooth and fully combined.
- Add pecans: Stir in 2 cups chopped pecans into the filling mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the hot baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Cool the bars: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely in the pan, which helps them set fully for clean slicing.
- Slice and serve: Using the edges of the parchment paper, lift the entire block of bars out of the pan. Cut into 24 squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the crust is fully cooled before adding the filling to avoid sogginess.
- Chop the pecans to your desired size for texture preference.
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner slicing.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Allow bars to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
