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Discover the Delight of Pecan Pie Bars
There’s something truly magical about pecan pie bars. With their rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch, these bars capture the essence of a classic pecan pie in a convenient, easy-to-serve format. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a sweet treat, this recipe is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pecan pie bars offer all the deliciousness of traditional pecan pie without the fuss of rolling out dough. They’re perfect for sharing at office parties, family gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. The combination of toasted pecans and a sweet, buttery filling is irresistible.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 12×18 inch dark metal jelly roll pan (or adjust to a 9×13 pan as needed)
- Large mixing bowls
- Wire whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Foil and cooking spray
- Wire rack for cooling
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup white sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup margarine
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups light corn syrup
- 1 ½ cups white sugar
- 3 tablespoons margarine, melted
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups chopped pecans
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease a 10×15 inch jelly roll pan or line it with foil for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, ½ cup sugar, and salt. Cut in 1 cup of margarine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, 1½ cups sugar, melted margarine, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
- Once the crust is done, spread the pecan filling evenly over it. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until set.
- Allow to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars.
Tips for Success
To enhance the flavor, consider toasting your pecans lightly before mixing them into the filling. Lining your pan with foil and greasing it will make removing the bars much easier.
Additional Tips and Variations
You can substitute brown sugar for white sugar in the crust for a deeper flavor. Using unsalted butter instead of margarine can also add richness to your pecan pie bars.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of these pecan pie bars is rich in flavor, with a satisfying combination of carbs, protein, and fats from the pecans. Perfect for a sweet indulgence!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use a different pan size? Yes, you can adjust the recipe for a 9×13 pan by reducing the ingredients slightly, as described in the introduction.
- How do I store these bars? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.
- Can I make these bars ahead of time? Absolutely! They can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
These pecan pie bars are a must-try for anyone who loves the classic taste of pecan pie without the hassle. I invite you to give this recipe a go and share your thoughts and variations. Enjoy the sweet, nutty delight!
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