Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering all the rich, nutty flavor in a convenient, portable form. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat. With a buttery shortbread crust, a rich, gooey pecan filling, and a hint of vanilla, these bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients for Gooey Pecan Pie Bars
- For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the Pecan Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
How to Make Gooey Pecan Pie Bars
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
- Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients, and use a pastry cutter or your hands to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, creating a firm, even layer.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Make the Pecan Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the melted butter and chopped pecans, ensuring the pecans are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake the Pecan Pie Bars:
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are golden brown. The center should be slightly jiggly but not liquid.
- Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. For clean edges, wipe the knife between cuts.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- These Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are delicious on their own or served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
About the Main Ingredients
- Pecans: Pecans are the star of this recipe, providing a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch. Native to North America, pecans are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They’re also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. In these bars, chopped pecans are used to ensure that every bite is filled with nutty goodness.
- Corn Syrup: Light corn syrup is a key ingredient in the filling, giving the bars their gooey texture. It also helps to stabilize the sugar and prevent crystallization, ensuring a smooth, glossy finish. While corn syrup has gotten a bad rap in recent years, it’s important to note that it’s not the same as high-fructose corn syrup. In moderation, corn syrup is a useful ingredient in baking.
- Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a depth of flavor to the filling, with its molasses content providing a hint of caramelization. It pairs beautifully with the pecans, enhancing their natural sweetness without overpowering them.
- Butter: The crust and filling both rely on butter for richness and flavor. In the crust, butter creates a tender, crumbly base that holds up well to the gooey filling. In the filling, melted butter adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract: A little bit of vanilla extract goes a long way in enhancing the flavor of these bars. It adds a subtle sweetness and warmth that complements the pecans and brown sugar perfectly.
These Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are a wonderful dessert option for those who love the classic flavors of pecan pie but want something a little more portable and easy to serve. The combination of a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, nutty filling makes these bars irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, they’re sure to be a hit!
