Description
Buttery Pecan Bars
Treat yourself to the rich, honey-like sweetness of these pecan bars. A must-have for dessert lovers!
Ingredients:
2 cups flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup butter, melted
4 eggs
1 cup honey
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
2 cups pecans, chopped
1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Combine flour, sugar, and butter to form the crust. Press into a pan and bake for 12 minutes.
Mix eggs, honey, sugar, and vanilla. Fold in chopped pecans.
Pour over crust and bake for 35 minutes.
Let cool before cutting into squares.
Save this recipe for your next bake-off!
#HoneyGlazedPecanBars
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect pecan bars every time. First, preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. For the crust, in a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of flour and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. Gradually stir in the 1 cup of melted butter until a soft dough forms. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to compact it. Pre-bake this crust for 12 minutes, or until just set and lightly golden at the edges.
While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk the 4 eggs until frothy. Add the 1 cup of honey, 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth and well-blended. Gently fold in the 2 cups of chopped pecans. Once the crust is out of the oven, immediately pour the pecan filling over the hot crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is a deep golden brown.
This is crucial: let the bars cool completely in the pan set on a wire rack. For clean cuts, chill the entire pan in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Use the parchment paper to lift the slab out, then cut into squares with a sharp knife.
Serving Suggestions
These rich bars are delightful on their own with a cup of coffee or tea. For a special dessert, serve them slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. They also make an elegant addition to a holiday cookie platter or a thoughtful homemade gift packaged in a decorative box.
How-to Summary
Make a shortbread crust from flour, powdered sugar, and melted butter; pre-bake. Whisk eggs, honey, brown sugar, and vanilla for the filling, then fold in pecans. Pour filling over the hot crust and bake until set. Cool completely, then chill before cutting into squares.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, pure maple syrup can be used as a 1:1 substitute for the honey, which will give the bars a different, but equally delicious, flavor profile.
How should I store these pecan bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
My filling seeped into the crust. What happened?
This usually occurs if the crust was not compacted firmly enough or if the filling was poured onto a completely cooled crust. Pouring the filling onto the hot, just-baked crust helps create a barrier.
Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely. Walnuts make an excellent substitute. For a mixed nut bar, try using a combination of pecans, walnuts, and almonds.
Why must I chill the bars before cutting?
Chilling solidifies the buttery filling, which is very soft at room temperature. This prevents the bars from squishing and ensures you get clean, sharp edges when slicing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the crust dough: Mix just until combined to avoid a tough crust.
- Under-baking the filling: The center should be set and not jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
- Cutting while warm: This is the top cause of messy bars. Patience is key—allow time to cool and chill.
- Using stale nuts: Always taste your pecans beforehand to ensure they are fresh and not rancid.
Conclusion
These Buttery Pecan Bars are a classic, crowd-pleasing treat that perfectly balances a tender shortbread crust with a rich, honey-kissed pecan topping. By following this enhanced guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve bakery-worthy results. Their make-ahead convenience and decadent flavor make them an indispensable recipe for your collection, sure to impress at any gathering or satisfy a sweet craving at home.