Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate solution for when you’re craving the rich, gooey goodness of pecan pie but want to skip the hassle. This recipe offers all the classic flavors of pecan pie in an easy-to-make, portable bar form. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these bars deliver a satisfying dessert with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make with simple ingredients.
• No need to fuss with rolling out pie crust.
• Perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and buttery flavors.
• Great for feeding a crowd or enjoying throughout the week.
• Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Butter
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Light corn syrup
• Granulated sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Pecan halves

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing flour, softened butter, and brown sugar until crumbly. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared dish to form an even layer.
3. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, then remove it from the oven to cool slightly.
4. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves.
5. Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading evenly.
6. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden.
7. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12–16 bars, depending on how large you cut them.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolaty twist.
• Maple Flavor: Substitute maple syrup for corn syrup to give the bars a hint of maple flavor.
• Nut Medley: Replace some pecans with walnuts or almonds for variety.
• Coconut Pecan Bars: Sprinkle shredded coconut over the crust before adding the filling.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Freezing: Wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: If desired, warm individual bars in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.

2. Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light corn syrup?

Absolutely! Dark corn syrup will give the bars a deeper, richer flavor.

3. How do I know when the filling is set?

The filling is set when it no longer jiggles in the center and is golden brown on top.

4. Can I make this recipe without nuts?

While the pecans are the star, you can substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free option.

5. What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?

Use a sharp knife, and wipe it clean between each cut for neat slices.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish to accommodate.

7. Are there any substitutes for corn syrup?

Maple syrup or honey can be used, but they may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

8. How long should I let the bars cool before cutting?

Allow the bars to cool completely, about 1–2 hours, to ensure clean cuts and prevent the filling from oozing.

9. Can I use pre-chopped pecans?

Yes, pre-chopped pecans work well and save time, though whole pecan halves offer a prettier presentation.

10. Can I serve these warm?

Yes, warm pecan pie bars are delicious, especially when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Conclusion

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful and stress-free way to enjoy the iconic flavors of pecan pie. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just indulging in a sweet treat, these bars are sure to impress. With their simple preparation and versatile variations, they’re destined to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Give them a try—you’ll love how effortless and delicious they are!

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