How to Make Irresistible Pecan Chewies at Home

Pecan chewies are a delightful Southern treat that perfectly balance the rich, buttery flavor of pecans with a soft, chewy texture. These bars are a favorite in many households, especially during the holiday season, but they are perfect for any time of the year. The beauty of pecan chewies lies in their simplicity and the depth of flavor they offer. They are easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients, but the result is a dessert that feels special and indulgent.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create these delicious pecan chewies, ensuring that every bite is filled with nutty goodness and a satisfying chewiness. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be straightforward and foolproof. So, let’s get started and make some irresistible pecan chewies!

Ingredients for Pecan Chewies

To make these delectable pecan chewies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped

How to Make Pecan Chewies

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to make it easier to lift the bars out later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and light brown sugar. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps to incorporate air into the mixture, which will give the bars a lighter texture.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough bars.
3. Fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Bake the Pecan Chewies

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden brown and the center should be set but still slightly soft.
3. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 5: Cut and Serve

1. Once the pecan chewies are completely cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan.
2. Place the bars on a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut them into squares or rectangles.
3. Serve the pecan chewies as is, or dust them with a little powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.

About the Main Ingredients

Butter: Unsalted butter is used in this recipe to provide a rich, buttery flavor without adding extra salt. Melting the butter helps to create a smooth, homogenous batter and contributes to the chewiness of the bars. The fat in the butter also adds moisture, ensuring that the bars remain soft and tender.

Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is a key ingredient in pecan chewies, providing sweetness and a subtle molasses flavor. The moisture content in brown sugar helps to create the soft, chewy texture that makes these bars so irresistible. It’s important to pack the brown sugar firmly into the measuring cup to ensure you have the correct amount.

Eggs: Eggs act as a binding agent in this recipe, holding the ingredients together and giving structure to the bars. They also help to add moisture and richness. Beating the eggs well incorporates air, which contributes to the lightness of the bars.

Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the pecan chewies, adding a warm, sweet aroma that complements the nuttiness of the pecans. Using pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor.

Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the bars. It’s important to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. This prevents adding too much flour, which can result in dry, dense bars.

Baking Powder: Baking powder acts as a leavening agent, helping the bars to rise and become light and fluffy. It’s essential to ensure that your baking powder is fresh for the best results.

Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness of the brown sugar. It also helps to strengthen the gluten in the flour, contributing to the texture of the bars.

Pecans: Pecans are the star of this recipe, providing a rich, buttery flavor and a satisfying crunch. Chopping the pecans allows them to be evenly distributed throughout the batter, ensuring that every bite is filled with nutty goodness. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavor even further.

These irresistible pecan chewies are a perfect blend of sweet, nutty, and chewy. They make a wonderful dessert or snack, and they are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee, pack them in a lunchbox, or serve them at a holiday gathering, these pecan chewies are a delicious treat that you will want to make again and again. Enjoy!