Name: Easy Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened; 0.25 cups granulated sugar; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup light corn syrup; 1.5 cups packed brown sugar (light or dark as preferred); 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1.5 cups chopped pecans, toasted if possible

Jump to Recipe

Creamy, crunchy, and impossibly easy — these Easy Pecan Pie Bars are the kind of dessert that disappears before you can say seconds. Think of everything you love about classic pecan pie — the buttery crust, the caramel-like filling, the toasty pecan crunch — but in a portable, fuss-free bar that’s perfect for potlucks, weeknight treats, or an indulgent afternoon coffee. Fun fact: pecan pie is Southern comfort at its finest, and turning it into bars was a brilliant way to avoid slicing a pie at crowded gatherings.

This recipe is special because it’s simple, fast, and family-friendly. You’ll spend minimal time prepping and still impress guests with rich, sticky sweetness. If you love shortcuts that don’t skimp on flavor, try my version — and if you’re curious about other easy twists, check out this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars for another shortcut approach. Get ready to bake with confidence and enjoy the cozy vibes these bars bring to any table.

What is Easy Pecan Pie Bars?

What’s in a name? Easy Pecan Pie Bars are exactly what they sound like: pecan pie in bar form — easier to make, easier to serve, and just as satisfying. Why call them “easy”? Because there’s no rolling pastry, no pie plate drama, and no worry about a soggy middle. Curious where the bar idea came from — was it laziness or genius? Probably both. After all, sometimes the best inventions start with a “what if we just…?” moment. And hey, if you ever doubt the power of a sweet little traybake, remember the old classic: “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Give these a try and see who you win over.

Why You’ll Love This

There are so many reasons these bars become a fast favorite. First, the main highlight is the contrast between the crisp, buttery shortbread-like crust and the gooey, caramel-y pecan topping — every bite hits multiple textures and flavors. Second, making them at home saves money compared to store-bought desserts or specialty bakeries; a single batch feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. Third, the rich flavors come from pantry staples — brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla, and toasted pecans — ingredients that blend into something surprisingly sophisticated.

If you enjoy other pecan treats on the blog, you might also like the family-friendly twist found in Pecan Pie Bars — Pecan Pie which explores a slightly different method. Ready to bake? These bars are calling.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is easy because it relies on straightforward mixing and a two-stage bake: one for the crust and one for the filling. You’ll get a tender, slightly crumbly crust and a glossy, set filling with a toasted pecan top. Prep time is minimal — roughly 15 minutes — plus about 50 minutes of oven time (20 minutes for the crust, 30 minutes for the filling). The standout element is the rich, almost caramel-like filling that sets into a chewy, decadent layer. Perfect for anyone who likes big flavor with low effort.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

3 large eggs, room temperature

1 cup light corn syrup

1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar (light or dark as preferred)

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted if possible

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a bowl, add the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until the mixture is crumbly. Press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for approximately 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir in the chopped pecans. Pour the mixture over the baked crust and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow the bars to cool before cutting into squares.

Preheat and prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper and let a bit hang over the edges to lift bars out easily later.
Make the crust: In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/2 cup softened butter, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Use a fork, pastry cutter, or clean hands to mix until crumbly and evenly combined.
Press and bake crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan using the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed measuring cup. Bake about 20 minutes until the edges are lightly golden — this prevents a soggy base.
Whisk filling: While the crust bakes, in a large bowl whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup light corn syrup, 1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar, and 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract until smooth.
Add pecans: Stir 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans (toast them in a dry skillet for a few minutes for extra flavor if you like) into the filling mixture.
Bake topping: Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the hot, partially baked crust. Return to the oven and bake an additional 30 minutes or until the filling is set and no longer jiggly in the center.
Cool and cut: Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack. For clean slices, chill in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes, then lift out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares.

Easy Pecan Pie Bars

What to Serve With

Serve these bars on their own with a steaming cup of coffee or strong tea for a simple afternoon treat. For dessert service, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the sweet, dense filling. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or berries add brightness and cut through the richness. For a holiday spread, pair with a light citrus salad or a creamy mascarpone dip. Warm spiced cider, a milky latte, or a glass of fortified wine also complement the deep caramel notes.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Toast the pecans: Lightly toasting pecans in a dry skillet enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.
Don’t overbeat the eggs: Whisk until combined; overmixing can introduce too much air and affect the set.
Press crust firmly: A well-pressed crust bakes more evenly and holds the sticky filling better.
Watch the bake time: Ovens vary — start checking the filling at 25 minutes. You want it set with just a slight jiggle at the center.
For cleaner slices: Chill the bars before cutting and use a sharp knife wiped between cuts.
Substitutions: You can swap pecans for walnuts, use dark corn syrup for a deeper flavor, or replace up to half the brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different caramel note.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigerate cut bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking. To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat chilled or frozen bars in a 325°F oven for 8–12 minutes to refresh their texture, or microwave a single bar for 10–20 seconds until just warm. Avoid overheating, which can dry the filling and make the crust tough.

FAQs

How long do these bars keep at room temperature?
They’re best stored in the refrigerator; left at room temperature in a covered container they will be fine for up to 24 hours in cool conditions, but refrigeration extends freshness.

Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes — make them a day or two ahead, store in the fridge, and cut just before serving. They also freeze well for longer prep.

Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
Absolutely. Walnuts, almonds, or a mix of chopped nuts will work; adjust to taste and consider toasting them first.

Is light corn syrup necessary?
Corn syrup helps create the classic gooey texture. You can experiment with maple syrup or golden syrup, but expect a slightly different texture and flavor.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. The crust texture may vary, so press firmly and bake until set.

Conclusion

These Easy Pecan Pie Bars are a must-make when you want big pecan pie flavor without the pie fuss. They’re simple, budget-friendly, and endlessly crowd-pleasing — proof that comfort baking doesn’t have to be complicated. If you enjoy recipes that simplify classic desserts, you might appreciate this variation for its ease and reliability. For another take and inspiration, check out Pecan Pie Bars Recipe (1,000 Times Easier Than Actual Pie!) | The … (https://www.thekitchn.com/pecan-pie-bars-recipe-23691157) and see how other bakers streamline the process. Happy baking — and don’t forget to share a square (or three) with someone you love.