Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Introduction

There’s something comforting about the aroma of pecan pie wafting through the house, especially during the holidays. As someone who loves to indulge in desserts but often finds baking to be a time-consuming task, I was thrilled to discover Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars. These bars capture all the rich, sweet, and nutty flavors of traditional pecan pie but come together in a fraction of the time. My family couldn’t get enough of them! Each bite is a delicious blend of buttery crust and sweet pecan filling, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the bars.

Prepare Pie Crust

Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts and fit them into the bottom of the greased baking pan, pressing down gently to cover the entire bottom. This will form a deliciously flaky base for your pecan filling.

Make Filling

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. This step is crucial as it combines all the sweet and savory flavors. Stir in the pecan halves until evenly coated.

Pour Filling

Pour the pecan filling over the pie crust in the baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure each bar has a good amount of filling.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 bars
• Calories: 320 kcal (per bar)
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 35g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 4g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm or Room Temperature: These bars are delicious served warm or at room temperature.
• Garnish: Consider adding whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an extra indulgent treat.
• Pairing: Serve with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Additional Tips

1. Butter Temperature: Ensure that the melted butter has cooled slightly before mixing it into the filling to prevent cooking the eggs.
2. Pecan Quality: Use fresh pecans for the best flavor; stale nuts can detract from the dish.
3. Chill Time: For easier slicing, allow the bars to chill in the refrigerator after cooling to room temperature.
4. Serving Size: Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing at gatherings.
5. Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for a decadent twist.
• Nut Mix: Substitute some of the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
• Spices: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the filling for a spiced flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Holiday Gatherings: These bars are a great addition to any holiday dessert table.
• Potlucks: Perfect for sharing at potlucks, as they are easy to transport and serve.
• Family Desserts: A fantastic treat for a cozy family night or movie marathon.

Freezing and Storage

These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars freeze exceptionally well. Cut the bars into squares and layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper between the layers. Freeze for up to three months. To thaw, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade pie crust?

• Absolutely! While refrigerated pie crust makes it easier, homemade crust can add a personal touch.

1. Can I substitute the corn syrup?

• Yes, you can use maple syrup or honey, but this will slightly change the flavor and texture.

1. What kind of pecans should I use?

• Use whole pecan halves for a nice presentation, but chopped pecans will work just as well.

1. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

• The filling should be set and slightly puffed, and the top should be golden brown.

1. Can I add chocolate chips?

• Yes, folding in chocolate chips with the pecans can create a delicious chocolate-pecan combo.

1. How long do the bars last?

• They can be stored at room temperature for 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

1. Can I use a different nut?

• Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes for pecans.

1. Is it necessary to use salt?

• A little salt enhances the sweetness, but you can omit it if desired.

1. What can I do with leftovers?

• Leftover bars can be crumbled over yogurt or ice cream for a tasty dessert.

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   • Yes! They can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that simplifies the baking process without compromising on flavor. With their buttery crust and rich pecan filling, these bars are perfect for any occasion—from holiday celebrations to casual family gatherings. They’re sure to impress your guests while allowing you to enjoy the fun of entertaining without the stress. Give this recipe a try, and I promise you won’t be disappointed! 🍂🥧

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