Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

If you’ve ever wished pecan pie was easier to make without losing that rich, buttery, nutty goodness, then you’re about to fall in love with these Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars. They capture all the classic flavors you adore in a traditional pecan pie but simplify the process by turning it into an effortless bar recipe. Imagine a tender, buttery crust paired with a luscious, caramel-like filling studded with crunchy pecans—it’s basically pecan pie in the most approachable, no-fuss form. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these bars deliver that perfect combo of sweet and nutty every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars is how straightforward the ingredient list is—each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of textures and flavors. From the flaky crust that holds everything together to the gooey, pecan-packed filling, these ingredients work like a charm.

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base for your buttery crust, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds rich flavor and moisture to the crust, ensuring it’s soft yet sturdy.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough for a delicate contrast to the filling.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor, balancing sweetness and bringing out the nuts’ nuttiness.
• 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the filling together and creating that classic custard-like texture.
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed: Gives the filling its deep caramel sweetness and slight moisture.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and smoothness to the filling, melding all flavors beautifully.
• ¼ cup corn syrup (light or dark): Helps the filling set with a glossy finish that’s that perfect chewy consistency.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to every bite.
• 1 ½ cups pecan halves (or chopped pecans): The star ingredient, delivering that signature crunch and flavor.

How to Make Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This simple step ensures your bars will lift out easily without sticking, making cleanup a breeze and your bars look perfect when sliced.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until the dough forms a crumbly texture. Then press it firmly and evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Bake this for 12 to 15 minutes until it’s just turning lightly golden brown—this pre-bake ensures your crust is crisp and not soggy once the filling is added.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Pecan Filling

While the crust bakes, whisk together the eggs, light brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth and combined. Stir in the pecans so they’re evenly coated. This filling mixture is what transforms the bars into a luscious pecan pie experience, with the perfect gooey and crunchy balance.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Your Bars

When the crust is ready, carefully remove it from the oven and pour the pecan filling evenly over it. Use a spatula to spread it out so every square will have a perfect ratio of nuts and sweet filling. Return to the oven and bake for another 25 to 30 minutes, until the filling is set and begins to brown slightly around the edges. Don’t worry if it jiggles a bit at the center—it will firm up as it cools.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This is key for getting clean slices that hold together perfectly. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment edges and cut into squares. You’re ready to serve some of the easiest, tastiest pecan pie bars you’ve ever made!

How to Serve Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Garnishes

These bars are fantastic on their own, but why not elevate them? A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce makes them irresistibly indulgent. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few extra pecan halves on top adds a lovely visual touch and a little extra crunch.

Side Dishes

Pairing these bars with a cup of strong coffee or a rich cup of hot chocolate turns an ordinary snack into a delightful treat. Fresh seasonal fruit or a dollop of whipped cream also complement the buttery-sweet pecan flavor beautifully, keeping things light and bright.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or holiday parties, consider serving these bars on a rustic wooden board or a pretty cake stand. You can also cut them into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy sharing, or pair each square with a small scoop of ice cream in a dessert bowl for a charming plated dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the bars soft and moist without drying out the filling or crust.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, these bars freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store them in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to preserve their texture and flavor.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat bars gently in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. Add a scoop of ice cream right after reheating for a cozy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

FAQs

Can I use chopped pecans instead of halves?

Absolutely! Whether you prefer chopped or halves, the pecans will still deliver the crunchy texture and nutty flavor that make these bars so special. Just make sure to distribute them evenly in the filling for consistent bites.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Choose one that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour for best results, and your crust will still come together nicely.

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?

Definitely. Dark corn syrup will lend a slightly deeper, richer flavor to the filling, which some people love. It won’t change the texture or baking time, so feel free to use whichever you have on hand.

How long do these bars keep fresh?

Stored at room temperature in an airtight container, these bars are best enjoyed within 3 days. Beyond that, they may start to lose that perfect chewy texture but are still delicious if refrigerated for up to a week.

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

You sure can! Just double all the ingredients and use a larger pan, or make two batches in your 9×13-inch dish one after the other. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it might vary slightly depending on depth.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are truly a game-changer when it comes to enjoying that iconic pecan pie flavor without the fuss. Whether you’re a baking newbie or just short on time, they’re the perfect way to whip up a crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal effort. Treat yourself and your loved ones—you won’t regret making these bars a new favorite go-to dessert in your kitchen!

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