These Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious twist on a classic dessert! With a buttery crust and a gooey maple filling packed with crunchy pecans, they are a sweet treat that everyone will love.
They are super easy to make and perfect for sharing, or for sneaking bites all to yourself! I always keep some in the fridge; they make perfect after-dinner snacks. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the crust. If you’re gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, which works well in this recipe.
Unsalted Butter: Using cold butter is key for a flaky crust! If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a good dairy-free butter alternative can work just fine.
Pure Maple Syrup: This gives the bars their signature flavor. If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can try agave syrup, but the taste will be different.
Pecans: These are essential for that characteristic pecan pie flavor. If you have nut allergies, you could try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a different, crunchy topping.
How Do You Make the Perfect Crust for Maple Pecan Pie Bars?
Creating the crust is a big part of what makes these bars special! You want it buttery and crumbly, not too hard or soft. Here’s how to nail it:
- Keep your butter cold—you can even freeze it for a few minutes before cutting.
- Mix until the butter is in small, pea-sized pieces, this ensures a flaky texture.
- Press the crust firmly into the pan for an even base; don’t skip the pre-baking step—it helps the crust stay crisp.
With this method, your crust will be the perfect contrast to the gooey maple filling! Enjoy making them!
How to Make Delicious Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 30-35 minutes for baking. After baking, allow the bars to cool for 2 hours in the fridge to set perfectly. In total, plan for about 3 hours before they’re ready to slice and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9 inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring there’s some overhang for easy removal later.
2. Make the Crust:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This will create a nice, flaky crust.
3. Bake the Crust:
Evenly press the crust mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. Place it in the oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once done, take it out of the oven but keep the oven on.
4. Prepare the Filling:
While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until everything is combined and smooth.
5. Add Pecans:
Stir the pecans into the mixture, making sure they are well-coated with the filling.
6. Assemble the Bars:
Pour the pecan filling over the warm crust, making sure to spread it out evenly.
7. Bake the Bars:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30-35 minutes. The filling should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center when done.
8. Cool and Chill:
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, transfer to the fridge and let them chill for at least 2 hours to fully set.
9. Cut and Serve:
When ready to serve, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares. Enjoy these delightful treats chilled or at room temperature!
Your Maple Pecan Pie Bars will be a crowd-pleaser, offering all the classic flavors of pecan pie in a fun and easy-to-eat format. Enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor and texture. Just be sure to chop them if they are whole.
How Should I Store Leftover Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn!
Can I Make These Bars Vegan?
Yes! You can replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) and use vegan butter instead of regular butter. Ensure your maple syrup is also vegan!
What If My Filling Seems Too Runny?
If the filling looks too runny after the baking time, it’s likely not fully set. Return it to the oven and bake in 5-minute increments until it’s set but still slightly jiggly. Cooling in the fridge will also help it firm up.
