Pecan Pie Bar Cookies Recipe – Love With Recipes
Pecan Pie Bar Cookies are a delightful dessert that brings together the buttery goodness of shortbread and the rich, nutty sweetness of a pecan pie. This recipe has been a favorite among friends and family, and every time I’ve made it, someone inevitably asks for the recipe. These bars are not only incredibly delicious but also freeze beautifully, making them a perfect treat for gatherings or whenever a craving strikes. Let’s dive into the details to create this irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients needed for both the shortbread base and the luscious pecan filling.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Butter (for the base) | 3/4 cup | Provides richness and creates a crumbly texture. |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Forms the structure of the shortbread base. |
| Brown sugar (base) | 1/2 cup | Adds sweetness and caramel flavor to the crust. |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon | Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor. |
| Butter (for the filling) | 1/2 cup | Adds richness to the pecan filling. |
| Brown sugar (filling) | 1 cup | Sweetens and creates the signature caramel taste. |
| Honey | 1/3 cup | Provides depth of flavor and natural sweetness. |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons | Enhances the overall flavor of the filling. |
| Pecans, chopped | 1 cup | The star ingredient, providing crunch and nuttiness. |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
This recipe makes 24 servings, and each serving has the following nutritional profile:
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Bar) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 256.2 |
| Total Fat | 16.6 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 26.8 mg |
| Sodium | 137.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 26.6 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |
| Sugars | 17.6 g |
| Protein | 2.1 g |
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to prepare your Pecan Pie Bar Cookies:
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base
- In a mixing bowl, combine 3/4 cup of butter, 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Mix the ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly. Use your hands or a pastry cutter for best results.
- Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking pan. Pat the crumb mixture evenly into the pan to form the shortbread base.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Filling
- While the shortbread base is baking, start preparing the filling. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt 1/2 cup of butter.
- Once the butter is melted, stir in 1 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of honey, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to simmer gently over low heat for about 1 minute, stirring occasionally to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Once the shortbread base is out of the oven and still hot, pour the prepared pecan filling evenly over the crust.
- Spread the filling with a spatula to ensure it covers the crust uniformly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 20 minutes. The filling should be bubbly in the center when done.
Step 4: Cool and Slice
- Remove the pan from the oven and allow the Pecan Pie Bars to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial to ensure the filling sets properly.
- Once cooled, cut the dessert into bars of your desired size using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife between slices.
Tips for Success
- Quality Pecans: Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Freezing Option: These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container for up to three months.
- Serving Suggestion: These bars pair perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea and can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Enjoy making these crowd-pleasing Pecan Pie Bar Cookies, and don’t forget to share the recipe with anyone who asks—you’ll surely be asked for it again and again!
