These Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a treat! With a buttery crust and a sweet maple filling loaded with crunchy pecans, they are perfect for any sweet tooth craving.
Every time I make these bars, they disappear fast! They’re great for sharing, although I secretly hope no one notices my stash in the corner. 🍂
The best part is how easy they are to cut into neat squares. I like to serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream—total bliss, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of the crust. If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free flour blend, which usually works similarly in this type of recipe.
Pecans: These add the delicious nutty flavor. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts make a nice alternative. You could also use mixed nuts for a different twist.
Maple Syrup: I recommend using pure maple syrup for the best flavor. If you’re in a pinch, light corn syrup can work, but it won’t have that rich maple taste. Agave syrup is another option.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my favorite for baking since it allows you to control the salt in your recipe. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a vegan butter can be great substitutes.
How Do I Achieve The Perfect Crust?
The crust is critical for holding these bars together and provides a delightful base. Here’s how to get it right:
- Make sure the butter is cold before you start. Cold butter helps create a flaky texture in the crust.
- Mix until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Don’t over-mix; otherwise, the crust may become tough.
- Press it firmly but gently into the pan. This helps maintain its shape during baking.
Remember that a beautifully golden crust enhances the flavor and looks appealing when serving. Enjoy making these bars—they’re a crowd-pleaser!
How to Make Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into pieces
- For the Filling:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 3/4 cup maple syrup (pure)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and another 50-60 minutes for baking and cooling time. With a little patience, you’ll have a delightful treat ready to share (or enjoy all by yourself! 🎉).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some extra hanging over the sides. This will help you lift the bars out later!
2. Make the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture turns into coarse crumbs, looking like sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to create an even layer.
3. Bake the Crust:
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until your crust is lightly golden. Once it’s done, take it out and set it aside to cool for a moment.
4. Prepare the Filling:
While your crust cools, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt in a separate bowl until everything is well mixed and smooth.
5. Add the Pecans:
Now, stir in 1 1/2 cups of the pecan halves into your filling mixture. This adds that delightful crunch!
6. Combine Filling and Crust:
Pour this yummy filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of pecan halves on top for a decorative finish.
7. Bake the Bars:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the filling is set and slightly golden on top.
8. Cool and Cut:
After baking, take them out and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift the bars out of the pan and cut them into squares.
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Enjoy your Maple Pecan Pie Bars at room temperature or slightly warm. For an extra treat, top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
These bars are rich, gooey, and nutty—perfect for any occasion. Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful recipe!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts or even a mix of nuts for varying flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that the taste will slightly change based on the nuts you choose.
What Should I Do If My Bars Are Too Soft?
If your bars are soft after baking, they might need a bit more time in the oven. Bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid overcooking. The filling should be set and slightly firm when you take it out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Make These Bars Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can bake the bars 1-2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container. Just reheat them in a warm oven for a few minutes before serving to bring back their delicious gooeyness.
