There’s something absolutely irresistible about pecan pie – the rich, buttery crust, the gooey caramelized filling, and the nutty crunch of pecans. But if you’re not in the mood for rolling out a pie crust or wrestling with a pie tin, you’re in for a treat! Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars offer all the decadence of traditional pecan pie in a simpler, easier-to-make form. With just a few ingredients and minimal steps, these bars deliver that Southern comfort you crave without the hassle.
Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a cozy treat on a rainy afternoon, these bars are your go-to dessert for any occasion. Let’s dive into how to make them and some tips to make them even more delicious.
Why Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are Perfect for You
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars combine the classic flavors of a pecan pie with a much simpler process. You don’t need any fancy equipment, hours of baking time, or advanced baking skills. Just a few pantry staples and a handful of ingredients come together to make a sweet, sticky, and utterly delicious dessert.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a novice baker, or simply in need of a quick sweet fix, these bars will be your new best friend. The crumbly, shortbread-style crust is made effortlessly with a few ingredients, while the pecan topping bakes to perfection, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavors. Plus, these bars are easy to slice, transport, and serve, making them ideal for gatherings or meal prepping for a week’s worth of treats.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 3/4 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking pan to form an even crust layer.
Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes or until it turns a light golden brown. This step ensures your bars have a firm base to hold the rich filling.
2. Make the Filling
While the crust is baking, prepare the pecan filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well blended. Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed in the filling mixture.
3. Assemble and Bake
Once the crust is lightly golden and slightly firm to the touch, pour the pecan filling over it, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly puffed around the edges. The center should still have a slight jiggle but will firm up as it cools.
4. Cool and Slice
Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once they’re cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment paper, and transfer them to a cutting board. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve!
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars Every Time
- Ensure Proper Crust Consistency: When mixing the crust ingredients, aim for a crumbly, dough-like texture. This consistency helps create a sturdy base that supports the rich, gooey filling.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: Stirring too vigorously can incorporate too much air, making the filling less dense and gooey. Gently whisk until just combined to keep the perfect texture.
- Parchment Paper Lining: Lining the baking pan with parchment paper is crucial. It not only prevents sticking but also makes it easier to lift the bars out of the pan for slicing.
- Cooling Time is Key: These bars need ample time to set. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool completely to achieve clean, neat slices. If you’re in a hurry, a brief chill in the refrigerator will help the filling set faster.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped for up to three months.
Variations to Try
The beauty of this Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars recipe lies in its flexibility. Here are some variations to try:
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars: Add a 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
- Maple Syrup Substitution: Replace corn syrup with maple syrup for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Caramel Pecan Bars: Drizzle a little caramel sauce over the bars just before serving for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars on a dessert platter with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. They’re equally delightful on their own, offering a satisfying combination of crunch and gooey sweetness. These bars make a lovely gift for friends and family, or a delicious addition to holiday cookie trays and dessert tables.
Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion
These bars are versatile, easy to transport, and require only minimal cleanup, making them an ideal treat for any celebration, potluck, or casual gathering. With such an accessible ingredient list and foolproof process, Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars bring all the charm and flavor of a Southern classic into your kitchen without any fuss.
So next time you’re craving pecan pie but don’t want to go through the hassle of pie-making, whip up a batch of these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars. With their simple, straightforward process and classic flavors, they’re bound to become a household favorite.
Try This Recipe Today!
Whether you’re a fan of traditional pecan pie or just love trying new recipes, Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars offer the best of both worlds. They’re simple, satisfying, and sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Enjoy