Indulge in the delightful ease of Lazy Pecan Pie Bars, a treat that tastes like it took hours to make but comes together effortlessly. With a buttery crust and a pecan-filled topping, these bars are perfect for any occasion.
Servings:
Makes about 16 bars
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
- Prepare Crust:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and salt.
- Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
- Bake Crust: Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling.
- Prepare Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Assemble Bars:
- Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Pop the pan back into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment ‘handles’ and cutting them into squares.
Variations & Tips:
- Go nuts and mix in some chocolate chips or swap out half of the pecans for chopped walnuts for a different nut profile.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a festive, spicy twist.
- Make these ahead of time! They store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days or in the fridge if you prefer them firmer.
- Substitute corn syrup with honey for a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
There you have it—Lazy Pecan Pie Bars that taste like you slaved away but were secretly a breeze to make. Trust me, your taste buds (and your schedule!) will thank you. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes