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Lazy Pecan Pie Bars

Lazy Pecan Pie Bars

Lazy Pecan Pie Bars offer all the rich, nutty flavors and gooey texture of classic pecan pie in a fast, simple-to-make bar format. Perfect for busy days or last-minute cravings, these bars feature a buttery shortbread crust topped with a sweet, caramelized pecan filling that bakes in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread crust

  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Pecan filling

  • 1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (100g) chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, all-purpose flour, and salt to create a crumbly dough. Press this mixture evenly into a greased baking pan to form the shortbread base, which provides a buttery and crisp foundation for the bars.
  2. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for about 15 minutes or until it starts to turn golden around the edges. This par-baking step ensures the crust stays firm and crisp once the filling is added, preventing sogginess.
  3. Make the Pecan Filling: While the crust bakes, whisk together brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy. Gently stir in the chopped pecans, making sure they are evenly coated. This filling creates the gooey, nutty topping of the bars.
  4. Pour and Bake: Pour the pecan filling evenly over the warm crust. Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly soft in the center to maintain a luscious texture.
  5. Cool and Slice: Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. Cooling allows the filling to firm up for clean slicing. Once cooled, cut the bars into desired sizes and serve.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and a smooth filling.
  • Do not overbake; keep an eye on the filling to maintain a gooey texture.
  • Chop pecans uniformly for even baking and attractive presentation.
  • Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to avoid messy edges.
  • Line your pan with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner edges.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie bars, lazy pecan pie, easy pecan dessert, shortbread crust, quick pecan bars