Description
These Pecan Shortbread Bars are a perfect combination of buttery shortbread and crunchy pecans, making them the ideal treat for any occasion. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor, these bars are an irresistible dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just craving a simple, delicious snack, these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Ingredients
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For the Shortbread Base:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1/2 cup powdered sugar
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Pecan Topping:
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1/2 cup pecans, chopped
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1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for extra sweetness)
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Instructions
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Prepare the Shortbread Base:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the flour and salt and mix until the dough comes together and is smooth.
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Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a flat, even layer.
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Bake the shortbread base in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden around the edges.
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Remove the shortbread from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the topping.
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Prepare the Pecan Topping:
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In a small bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
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Stir until everything is well combined and the pecans are evenly coated.
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Assemble and Bake the Bars:
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Evenly spread the pecan topping over the slightly cooled shortbread base.
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Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the pecans are toasted and the topping is golden and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares or bars.
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Serve:
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Once cooled, cut the shortbread into bars or squares.
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Serve and enjoy the delicious, buttery pecan shortbread!
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Notes
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For extra flavor, you can toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the topping.
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You can also add a pinch of cinnamon to the topping for a warm, spiced flavor.
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Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg