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An extreme close-up shot of two pecan pie bars, illustrating the texture of the gooey pecan filling on top of the crisp shortbread crust.

Pecan Pie Bars: The Ultimate Recipe for a Buttery Shortbread Crust

Discover the best Pecan Pie Bars recipe featuring a crisp, buttery shortbread crust and a perfectly gooey, rich caramel-pecan filling. This easy, foolproof guide ensures perfect results every time.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 24 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Buttery Shortbread Crust
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Gooey Pecan Filling
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup light corn syrup
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups pecan halves Toasted, if desired

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Pan
  • 1 Parchment Paper
  • 2 Mixing Bowls

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to easily lift the bars out later.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden.
  4. While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, 1 cup brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until just combined.
  5. Stir in the pecan halves.
  6. Pour the filling mixture over the hot, pre-baked crust.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and does not jiggle when the pan is gently shaken. The edges should be golden brown and bubbly.
  8. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. For best results and the cleanest cuts, refrigerate for at least 2 hours before using the parchment sling to lift the bars out and slice.

Notes

Toasting Pecans: For a richer flavor, toast pecans on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5-7 minutes before adding to the filling.
Clean Slicing: Ensure bars are fully chilled before cutting. Use a large, sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice for perfect squares.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.