Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe

Introduction

Have you ever craved the delightful taste of pecan pie but hesitated because it seemed too complicated to make? What if we told you that you could indulge in this classic dessert with a simple, no-fuss recipe? Our Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe comes to the rescue, offering all the rich flavors of pecan pie without the tedious preparation. This recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s transform your treat game with these mouthwatering bars!

Ingredients List

• 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• ½ cup of brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups of pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 cup of corn syrup
• ½ cup of granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

Feel free to substitute the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. You can also use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a unique twist!

Timing

This Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to bake, totaling an hour. That’s about 20% less time than a traditional pecan pie, allowing you to enjoy your dessert faster!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of melted butter. Stir until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an even layer.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of corn syrup, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 3 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon (if using) until well combined.

Step 4: Add the Pecans

Stir in the 2 cups of chopped pecans into the syrup mixture, ensuring the nuts are evenly coated.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Pour the pecan mixture over your crust, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until set and golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely before cutting into squares. This helps maintain their shape and makes them easier to serve.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (1 bar) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 4g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make your bars healthier while keeping the taste intact, consider these modifications:

• Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like stevia for reduced calories.
• Incorporate flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of whole eggs for a vegan option.

Serving Suggestions

These pecan pie bars are fantastic on their own, but consider enhancing your dessert with one of these ideas:

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your bars as they bake; overbaking can lead to a dry texture. Aim for a slight jiggle in the center.
• Not cooling before cutting: Allowing the bars to cool fully will ensure clean cuts and prevent them from falling apart.
• Skipping the greasing step: Ensure your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars fresh:

• Store in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature.
• For longer storage, place bars in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to two weeks.
• These bars can also be frozen! Cut them into squares and wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Conclusion

With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the rich, scrumptious flavors of pecan pie in bar form! These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are quick to prepare, adaptable, and perfect for any occasion. Try the recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Can I use different nuts for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute with walnuts or even a mix of your favorite nuts for a unique twist.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

Your bars should have a slight jiggle in the center but be set around the edges. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.

Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?

Yes! Adding semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the pecan filling can enhance the flavor and add a delicious contrast.

Print

Sharing is caring!