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Sweet Pecan Pie Bars

Cozy, buttery squares that taste like Sunday. These Sweet Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful treat with a nutty and sweet flavor, perfect for gatherings or dessert after dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 200
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened Helps control salt
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped Toast for deeper flavor
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup Keeps filling glossy
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x9 inch baking dish.
  2. Mix the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl until the mixture looks crumbly and holds when pressed. Press it firmly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
  3. Bake the crust for 10 minutes; you should see faint golden edges and a dry surface.
Filling Preparation
  1. Whisk the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a separate bowl until smooth and slightly glossy. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Baking
  1. After the crust comes out, pour the pecan mixture evenly over it; the filling will be liquidy but will set in the oven.
  2. Bake another 25–30 minutes, until the center no longer jiggles and the top turns a warm amber. Edges should be set and just a bit darker.
  3. Cool completely on a rack so the filling firms up; then cut into squares and serve.

Notes

For a nuttier bite, toast the pecans in a dry pan for 3–4 minutes before chopping. For a looser filling, bake a minute less; for firmer bars, add a couple of minutes. Time-saver: Toast pecans in a skillet while the crust bakes. If the filling bubbles over, place the pan on a sheet pan to contain spills. Stir in 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon for warm spice.