Maple Pecan Pie Bars

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 16
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If you're craving something sweet, nutty, and uniquely autumnal, these Maple Pecan Pie Bars might be just what you need. They're like pecan pie, but easier to share and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Maple Pecan Pie Bars

The base of this recipe is the crust, made with all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. The flour provides structure, while sugar adds just the right amount of sweetness. Softened butter is key for creating the rich, crumbly texture we all love in a good crust.

For the filling, eggs are the binder, helping everything set nicely. Pure maple syrup is the star of the show, bringing warmth and a distinct sweetness. Brown sugar adds depth, while melted butter ensures a rich, smooth filling. A touch of vanilla extract enhances all the flavors, and a pinch of salt balances the sweetness perfectly. Finally, pecan halves provide that essential nutty crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use parchment paper to easily lift the bars out of the pan for cutting.
  • For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top once they're baked.
  • Ensure your butter is truly softened for the crust — it makes blending much easier.

Serving Suggestions

These bars are fantastic on their own, but try serving them slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a real treat. They also pair beautifully with a seasonal spiced tea or a glass of chilled apple cider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use maple-flavored syrup instead of pure maple syrup?
For the best flavor, stick with pure maple syrup. The real stuff makes a big difference!
How should I store these bars?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They can also be refrigerated for up to a week.
Can I freeze the bars?
Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

Maple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a good time to line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper. It makes removing the bars a breeze later on.

In a mixing bowl, combine your flour and granulated sugar. Now, take your softened butter and cut it into the mixture. You’re aiming for a texture that resembles coarse crumbs. Once ready, press this into your prepared pan to form an even layer for the crust.

Pop the crust into the oven and let it bake for about 20 minutes, or until it turns a lovely light golden color. Once done, remove it and set it aside to cool while you prepare the filling.

For the filling, grab another bowl and whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves, ensuring they're evenly distributed.

Pour this pecan mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30 minutes. You're looking for the filling to be set and slightly golden.

Once baked, let the bars cool completely before slicing them up. Trust me, the waiting is the hardest part!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, buttery crust that holds everything together perfectly.
  • Sweet and nutty pecan filling with a hint of maple.
  • Easy to make and easier to share with friends and family.
  • Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 large eggs
1 cup pure maple syrup
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups pecan halves

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine flour and granulated sugar, then cut in softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this into the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
3. Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
4. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
5. Stir in the pecan halves.
6. Pour the mixture over the baked crust, spreading evenly.
7. Bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden.
8. Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.

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