Pecan pie is a classic dessert that’s loved for its sweet, nutty filling and buttery crust. But sometimes, you don’t want to deal with the hassle of making a traditional pie. That’s where these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars come in! They’re a simplified version of the beloved dessert, with all the flavors you love but without the complicated steps.
These bars combine the delicious richness of pecan pie in an easy-to-make, hand-held form. The crust is buttery and golden, while the filling is gooey, sweet, and full of toasted pecans. Plus, they require fewer ingredients and less time to prepare, making them perfect for busy bakers or anyone looking for a quicker dessert option.
Whether you’re looking to bring something sweet to a family gathering, holiday dinner, or just need a dessert for yourself, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars will hit the spot. Let’s get baking!
2. Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- Pinch of salt
3. Directions
Preparing the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and stir until the mixture is well combined and forms a dough.
- Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking pan, creating an even layer.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Making the Pecan Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and a pinch of salt, mixing well until everything is evenly combined.
Assembling the Bars:
- Pour the pecan filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the bars for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. You can check by gently tapping the pan; the filling should not jiggle.
- Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares.
4. How to Prepare
Once the Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are cooled and cut into squares, serve them as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence. They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerated for up to 1 week.
5. Preparation Time
- Preparation: 10 minutes
- Baking: 40-45 minutes
- Total: 55-60 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe makes 16 bars, perfect for a crowd or for enjoying throughout the week.
7. FAQs
1. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?
Yes, you can use dark corn syrup, but it will give the filling a richer, more robust flavor. The texture will remain the same.
2. Can I use a different nut in these bars?
While pecans are traditional, you can use walnuts or even almonds if you prefer a different nut.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, these bars can be made up to 2 days ahead. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
4. How do I know when the filling is done baking?
The filling should be set and no longer jiggly when you gently tap the pan. It should also have a golden brown color.
5. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes! You can freeze the bars for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container.
8. Conclusion
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars offer all the rich, sweet flavors of traditional pecan pie in a much easier, fuss-free form. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them on your own, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Bake a batch today and enjoy the deliciousness of pecan pie, without all the work!