These Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a tasty treat with a crunchy pecan topping and a sweet maple filling. They’re perfect for dessert lovers and easy to share!
Honestly, who can resist that gooey filling? I love how you can cut these into small squares and call it a snack—guilt-free snacking at its finest! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is essential for the crust’s structure. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may vary a bit.
Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar gives the crust a soft texture. If you don’t have any, you can blend regular granulated sugar in a blender until fine. It will work in a pinch!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. You can substitute it with coconut oil for a dairy-free option, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup adds a unique flavor here. If you’re in a pinch, use honey or agave syrup, though it will change the taste a little.
Pecans: Fresh pecans are key for this recipe. If you’re nut-free, try using rolled oats for a similar texture, but the flavor will change significantly.
How Do You Ensure a Perfect Crust?
The crust is the base of these delicious bars, so getting it right is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your butter is cold! This helps achieve that crumbly texture. Cut it into the flour until you see pea-sized pieces.
- Don’t overmix! Once the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, stop. Too much mixing can make the crust tough.
- Press the crust evenly and firmly into the pan. This helps it hold together while baking.
- Ensure it’s lightly golden before adding the filling. This means it’s partially baked and ready to hold everything together.
With these tips, your crust will be just right for holding that sweet maple filling! Enjoy your baking!
Delicious Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar (light or dark)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 2 cups pecan halves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 50-55 minutes for baking and cooling. Make sure to set aside some time to let the bars cool completely; they’ll be much easier to cut when they’re cool!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready to bake those delicious bars. Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting some hang over the edges for easy removal later. This is a little trick that makes serving so much easier!
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, powdered sugar, and salt together until well combined. Next, cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers. You want the mixture to look like coarse crumbs—don’t overmix! Once you have that texture, press it evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking pan.
3. Bake the Crust:
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!
4. Prepare the Filling:
While your crust is baking, it’s time to work on the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and combined.
5. Add Pecans and Filling:
Once the crust is done baking, take it out of the oven and immediately sprinkle the pecan halves evenly over the crust. Then, pour the maple filling over the pecans, using a spatula to gently spread it out if needed. Don’t worry about it looking perfect; it’ll come together while baking!
6. Bake Again:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the pecans are nicely toasted. You’ll know it’s ready when the center is firm to the touch.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This step is super important for easier cutting! Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment overhang and cut into squares. Serve them up and enjoy these delightful treats!
With a buttery crust, gooey maple filling, and crunchy pecans, these Maple Pecan Pie Bars are sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the quantity to your preference!
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes, these bars are great for making ahead! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you need to, you can also freeze them in individual portions. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
Can I Use Maple Flavored Syrup Instead of Pure Maple Syrup?
You can, but keep in mind that the flavor won’t be as rich and authentic. Pure maple syrup has a distinct taste that contributes to the overall flavor of the bars, so it’s recommended if you want the best results!
