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Easy Buttery Shortbread Pecan Pie Bars

A close-up, appetizing view of a square pecan pie bars slice showing a thick, gooey topping over a shortbread crust.

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Make these simple pecan pie bars featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a gooey, nutty filling. They deliver the classic flavor of pecan pie with minimal effort, perfect for holidays or satisfying sweet cravings.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup pecan halves, lightly toasted
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on two sides for easy removal.
  2. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. While the crust bakes, prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, remaining 1/2 cup brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
  5. Remove the partially baked crust from the oven. Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the hot crust.
  6. Carefully pour the liquid filling mixture over the pecans.
  7. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are lightly browned. The center should still look slightly soft.
  8. Let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This cooling time is important for the filling to set properly.
  9. Once cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into 16 squares.

Notes

  • You can prepare these bars ahead of time and store them covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For a richer flavor, substitute some of the pecans with walnuts.
  • If you are looking into meal planning for busy weeks, these are great to make on a Sunday for easy weekday desserts.

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