There’s something about Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars that brings the warmth of family gatherings and the joy of simple, sweet indulgence right into your kitchen. I remember the first time I made these bars — the aroma of melted butter and brown sugar filled the air, stealing everyone’s attention. In just one hour, you can whip up these delightful treats that boast all the classic pecan pie flavors, minus the fuss.
These bars are not only easy to make but also a perfect balance of buttery richness and nutty crunch. Whether it’s the holidays or just a cozy weekend, they’re ideal for sharing with friends or relishing during a quiet moment with a cup of coffee.
Why you’ll love Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
- Quick to prepare for any occasion.
- Chewy, nutty texture everyone adores.
- Fewer dishes to clean up.
- Freezer-friendly for easy storing.
- Perfect for gatherings or snacking.
What ingredients do I need for Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars?
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 3 large eggs
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Substitute unsalted butter with margarine if needed.
- For a gluten-free option, try almond flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- Use maple syrup for a twist on the classic flavor.
How do I make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars step-by-step?
Making these bars is straightforward. Begin by melting butter and combining it with brown sugar in a bowl. Next, stir in flour, salt, and chopped pecans. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Combine the two mixtures, then spread into a baking dish and bake until set.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the brown sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and chopped pecans until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture into the butter mixture and stir until combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.
Pro Tip: Allow the bars to cool completely to achieve cleaner cuts and enhance the flavor!
How should I serve it?
These bars shine on their own but can be elevated with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Serve them warm for a gooey dessert experience, or garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven before serving.
How do I fix common issues?
If your bars turn out dry, consider reducing the bake time slightly next round. If they seem bland, ensure you’re using fresh ingredients and adjust the sugar to your taste. For overcooked bars, keep an eye on them and rely on visual cues like a golden top and a slight jiggle in the center.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to mix it up! Add chocolate chips for a richer flavor or substitute some pecans with walnuts. For a spiced version, include a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix.
FAQs
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.
Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, walnuts or hazelnuts make great substitutes.
What’s the best way to cut the bars?
To get neat squares, use a sharp knife and make sure they are completely cooled. Wipe the knife between cuts for cleaner edges.
How do I serve leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed cold or slightly warmed in the microwave.
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are sure to become a favorite in your home, combining ease with unbeatable flavor. Enjoy every bite!
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, melt the butter and mix in the brown sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the flour, salt, and chopped pecans until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the egg mixture into the butter mixture and stir until combined.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Allow to cool before cutting into bars and serving.