If you love pecan pie but dread the hassle of rolling out dough or waiting hours for a traditional pie to cool, Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are here to save the day! These quick and easy bars deliver the same irresistible gooey, nutty goodness of a classic pecan pie without the fuss. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when you’re craving a sweet treat with minimal effort, this recipe is bound to become a favorite.
Why Choose Pecan Pie Bars Over Traditional Pecan Pie?
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect solution for those looking to simplify dessert-making without compromising flavor. Here’s why these bars shine:
- Convenience: No need to prepare and roll out pie dough. The crust comes together in minutes.
- Portability: Easy to cut into squares and transport, making them ideal for potlucks or parties.
- Versatility: Customizable with mix-ins like chocolate chips or a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgent touch.
Whether you’re pressed for time or just prefer desserts that are easy to share, these bars are a win-win.
Ingredients for Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
This simple recipe requires just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Filling
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
Optional Add-ins and Toppings
- Chocolate chips
- A sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast
- Bourbon for a boozy twist
Tools and Equipment Needed
To whip up these bars with ease, you’ll need the following:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Parchment paper for easy cleanup
- Mixing bowls and a whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A spatula for spreading the crust and filling evenly
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to lift the bars out easily after baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Make the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and softened butter. Mix until crumbly.
- Press the mixture firmly into the prepared pan to form an even layer.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
4. Assemble and Bake
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set and no longer jiggles in the center.
5. Cool and Slice
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment overhang.
- Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Ensure the crust is fully baked before adding the filling.
- Cool Completely: For clean cuts, let the bars cool completely before slicing.
- Test for Doneness: The filling should be set but still slightly gooey—avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.
Common Variations
- Chocolate-Pecan Bars:
Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist. - Salted Caramel Pecan Bars:
Drizzle with salted caramel sauce after baking for an indulgent finish. - Nut-Free Alternative:
Swap pecans with walnuts or shredded coconut for a different flavor profile.
Storing and Freezing Pecan Pie Bars
Storing:
- Keep leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing:
- Place bars in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert.
- Serve alongside coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Add to a holiday dessert platter with brownies, cookies, and other treats.
Nutritional Information
While indulgent, these bars can be enjoyed in moderation. A single bar (based on 16 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 250–300
- Carbohydrates: 35–40g
- Fat: 15–18g
- Protein: 3–4g
To make them lighter, try reducing the sugar or butter in the crust and filling.
Fun Facts About Pecan Pie Bars
- Origins of Pecan Pie: The first pecan pie recipes appeared in the early 20th century, and the dessert quickly became a Southern classic.
- Bars vs. Pie: Pecan pie bars emerged as a modern twist, offering the same flavors with a more convenient presentation.
- National Pecan Pie Day: Celebrated every July 12th, a perfect excuse to enjoy these bars year-round!
FAQs About Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
1. Can I use a pre-made crust?
Yes, a pre-made shortbread crust can save even more time.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day.
3. How do I keep the bars from sticking?
Use parchment paper to line your pan for easy removal and cleanup.
4. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
Yes, but it will result in a richer, deeper flavor.
5. Are these bars gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can substitute the flour in the crust with a gluten-free alternative.
6. Can I make these without corn syrup?
Yes, replace the corn syrup with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener option.
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are proof that dessert doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. With their rich, buttery crust and gooey, nutty filling, these bars capture the essence of pecan pie in a quick, easy-to-make format. Perfect for holidays, parties, or an everyday treat, this recipe will become a go-to for anyone craving a sweet and satisfying dessert without the fuss.