If you love the rich, nutty, caramel flavor of traditional pecan pie but want a simpler way to serve it to a crowd, these Easy Pecan Pie Bars are the answer. Made with a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey pecan filling, this dessert offers all the flavor of classic pecan pie — no rolling pins or pie dishes required.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or make-ahead desserts, these bars are always a hit and come together with just a few basic ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easier and quicker than traditional pecan pie
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Perfect for slicing and serving at parties or events
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Freezer-friendly and great for make-ahead prep
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Sweet, buttery, and nutty in every bite
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No mixer needed
Ingredients
For the Crust:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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2/3 cup granulated sugar
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2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
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1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling:
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3 large eggs
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1 cup light corn syrup
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1 cup packed light brown sugar
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until smooth. Add the flour and salt, and mix until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Filling
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
Pour the mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 4: Bake the Bars
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
Let the bars cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours before slicing. This helps them firm up for clean, easy cuts.
Serving Tips
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Slice into squares or rectangles and serve chilled or at room temperature
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Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish
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Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an indulgent treat
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days
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Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving
Recipe Variations
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Add a dash of cinnamon or bourbon to the filling for extra flavor
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Swap half the pecans with walnuts or almonds
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Use dark corn syrup for a deeper, richer taste
Final Thoughts
These easy pecan pie bars are the perfect dessert for the holidays or any time you’re craving that sweet and nutty pecan pie flavor without all the hassle. Simple, delicious, and crowd-friendly — they’ll become your new go-to recipe for gatherings and gifting.
Looking for more easy dessert bars? Explore our blog for other favorites like:
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Classic Lemon Bars
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Chocolate Chip Blondies
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Apple Crumble Bars