Maple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 1 hr
Total Time 2 hrs 5 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 175  C
Best Season: Fall
Description

These Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a cozy, fall-inspired dessert that combines the rich, buttery flavors of traditional pecan pie with the simplicity of a bar cookie. Each bite offers a golden shortbread crust topped with a luscious maple-pecan filling that’s perfectly sweet, nutty, and slightly gooey. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, holiday dessert tables, or anytime you crave a warm, comforting treat.

Ingredients
    For the Crust:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • For the Maple Pecan Filling:
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups pecan halves (roughly chopped)
    • Optional Garnish (for serving):
  • A pinch of flaky sea salt (optional)
  • Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
    Prepare the Baking Pan
  1. 1
    Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly grease the paper with butter or non-stick spray.
    2. Make the Shortbread Crust
  2. 2
    In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms. The dough should hold together when pressed between your fingers.
    3. Press and Bake the Crust
  3. 3
    Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, making sure it’s packed tightly for a sturdy base. Bake in the preheated oven at 175°C for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
    4. Make the Maple Pecan Filling
  4. 4
    In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, flour, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined. Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly coated in the mixture.
    5. Pour and Bake the Filling
  5. 5
    Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out with a spatula so it covers every corner. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set in the center and lightly browned on top.
    6. Cool and Slice
  6. 6
    Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 30–45 minutes to help them firm up. Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Place on a cutting board and slice into even squares or rectangles.
    7. Serve and Enjoy
  7. 7
    Serve the bars as-is or add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for balance. For an indulgent touch, pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Note

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Toasted Pecans: For a deeper nutty flavor, lightly toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat for 5–6 minutes before adding them to the filling.

Crust Variation: Add a pinch of cinnamon or 1 teaspoon of maple sugar to the crust for extra warmth.

Serving Tip: These bars are rich, so smaller portions go a long way. Serve chilled or slightly warmed for the best texture.

Keywords: maple pecan bars, fall dessert, easy holiday dessert, nutty bars, Thanksgiving treats
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/maple-pecan-pie-bars-recipe/