Introduction
If you love pecan pie but dread the hassle of rolling out dough and spending hours in the kitchen, you’re in luck! These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect shortcut to enjoy all the rich, nutty, caramel-like goodness of pecan pie—without the extra effort. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just a sweet craving, these bars are easy, delicious, and require minimal ingredients. Let’s dive into this fuss-free dessert that’s bound to become your new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: No need to fuss over a pie crust—just press the crust into a pan and bake.
- Perfect for Sharing: Slice into squares for a grab-and-go treat at parties or events.
- Rich and Flavorful: The buttery shortbread crust pairs beautifully with the gooey pecan filling.
- Great for Beginners: Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, you’ll nail this recipe on your first try!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup (or maple syrup for a natural option)
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, flour, powdered sugar, and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans to distribute evenly.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before slicing into bars.
Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Bars
- Shortcut Option: If you’re really short on time, use a store-bought refrigerated pie crust as a base.
- For a Crunchier Texture: Use whole pecans instead of chopped for a satisfying crunch.
- Want a Gooier Center? Slightly underbake the bars by 2–3 minutes to achieve a softer texture.
- For Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of bourbon or a pinch of cinnamon to the filling for a unique twist.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage:
- Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for longer shelf life.
- Freeze for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Serving Ideas:
- Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for extra decadence.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Conclusion
With their rich, buttery crust and gooey pecan topping, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars deliver all the flavors of classic pecan pie—without the stress of making a full pie. They’re the perfect dessert for any occasion, from Thanksgiving to a casual weekend treat. Easy to make, easy to share, and incredibly delicious—what’s not to love?
So, if you’re looking for a no-fuss, foolproof dessert that will wow your family and friends, give these pecan pie bars a try. You might never go back to traditional pecan pie again!
Happy Baking! 😊
