Introduction
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering the same rich, nutty flavors with far less effort.
Perfect for busy days or when you’re short on time, these bars capture the essence of the traditional dessert without the fuss of rolling out a pie crust.
The buttery shortbread crust serves as the perfect foundation for the gooey pecan filling, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors in every bite.
These bars are easy to prepare, making them ideal for novice bakers or anyone seeking a stress-free dessert option.
One of the best things about Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars is their versatility. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as an indulgent everyday treat.
Their portability makes them an excellent choice for sharing, and they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
This recipe simplifies the traditional pecan pie while preserving its delicious essence. By preparing the dessert in bar form, you eliminate the need for precise crust shaping, ensuring a foolproof result every time.
Ingredients
All-purpose flour
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Light corn syrup
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Chopped pecans
Salt
Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to the recommended temperature. This ensures even baking and a golden crust.
Prepare your baking dish by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly. This makes it easy to remove the bars once they’re baked.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and granulated sugar to form a crumbly dough. This will be the base of your bars.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a firm and level crust.
Bake the crust until it is lightly golden, then set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake until the filling is set and the edges are golden brown.
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This step is crucial for easy cutting and serving.
Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the dessert into squares or rectangles.
Transfer the bars to a serving plate, and they’re ready to enjoy.
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for extended freshness.
For added flavor, drizzle the bars with melted chocolate or caramel before serving.
Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
How to Make
To create a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
For a more robust flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling.
Use dark corn syrup for a deeper, richer taste if you prefer a slightly bolder filling.
Experiment with adding chocolate chips or shredded coconut to the filling for a fun twist.
For a thinner crust, reduce the dough quantity slightly or use a larger baking dish.
To achieve clean cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before slicing.
If you’re making these bars for a holiday event, sprinkle them with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Customize the sweetness by adjusting the amount of brown sugar to your taste.
Consider using a combination of different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique flavor profile.
Tips
Use room-temperature butter for easier mixing and a smoother crust.
Ensure the crust is evenly pressed to prevent uneven baking or cracking.
Don’t skip the parchment paper—it makes lifting the bars out of the pan much easier.
Keep an eye on the bars while baking to avoid overbaking, which can make them dry.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges and neat presentation.
Store the bars in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the bars for a sweet-and-salty flavor combination.
These bars freeze well, so consider making a double batch and saving some for later.
Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves pecan pie but doesn’t have the time for intricate baking.
They combine the rich, gooey goodness of pecan pie with the simplicity and convenience of a bar.
This recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple baking. With minimal effort, you can create a dessert that’s sure to impress, whether it’s for a casual gathering or a festive occasion.
The combination of the buttery crust and the sweet, nutty filling makes these bars a timeless favorite.
Their versatility and ease of preparation ensure they’ll become a go-to recipe in your collection.
Making Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars is not just about the result; it’s about enjoying the process of creating something delicious and sharing it with those you care about.
Embrace the simplicity and indulgence of this recipe, and you’ll find yourself returning to it time and time again.
These bars are proof that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a dessert that’s both memorable and delicious.