Description
Comforting Pioneer Woman Pecan Pie Bars deliver southern charm with a buttery graham cracker crust and rich caramel-like pecan filling. Generous layers of nutty sweetness invite warm gatherings and delightful dessert moments you’ll savor with each delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups pecan halves
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup dark corn syrup
Sugar and Sweeteners:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
Butter and Seasoning:
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter (1 cup + ½ cup melted)
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt (½ teaspoon + 1 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the baking environment by heating the oven to 350°F (177°C). Coat a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray, then line with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the edges for effortless removal.
- Transform butter into a rich, golden-brown state by heating in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Watch carefully for approximately 6 to 8 minutes until the butter develops a nutty aroma, then swiftly transfer to a medium bowl to halt the cooking process.
- Integrate granulated sugar and salt into the browned butter. Gradually incorporate flour, mixing thoroughly until the dough achieves a uniform consistency with no dry pockets remaining.
- Distribute the dough evenly across the prepared pan’s bottom, applying firm pressure to create a smooth, compact layer that reaches into every corner.
- Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes until the crust sets. If large bubbles appear, gently press them down.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, dark corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture becomes silky and well-combined.
- Fold pecan halves into the filling, ensuring each nut receives an even coating of the sweet mixture.
- Carefully pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, distributing pecans uniformly. Return to the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling rises and sets completely.
- Allow the bars to cool entirely on a wire rack within the pan. Utilize the parchment paper’s overhanging edges to lift the dessert, then slice into individual squares for serving.
Notes
- Dark corn syrup creates the signature gooey, glossy texture that makes these bars irresistibly delicious.
- Browned butter transforms the classic dessert with a rich, nutty depth that elevates the entire recipe.
- Toasting pecans before adding them to the filling intensifies their natural sweetness and provides a deeper flavor profile.
- Room temperature ingredients help create a smooth, well-incorporated filling without lumps or separation.
- Cooling the bars completely ensures clean, precise cuts and allows the filling to set perfectly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg