Simple Maple Pecan Pie Bars in 30 Minutes or Less

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of maple syrup and toasted pecans, these Maple Pecan Pie Bars are just what you need! Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these delicious pecan dessert bars can be prepared in under 30 minutes and are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With a buttery crust and a sticky, gooey filling, these bars are a wonderful homage to traditional pecan pie, but with a twist that makes them uniquely portable.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

Kitchen Tools:
– 8-inch square baking dish
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Rubber spatula
– Measuring cups and spoons

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 10 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.

2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and flour. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form the crust.

3. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.

4. Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a clean bowl, whisk together maple syrup, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in the chopped pecans until they’re well-coated.

5. Combine and Bake: Once the crust is done baking, pour the maple-pecan mixture over the crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

6. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment overhang and slice them into squares.

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

Pecan dessert bars offer several nutritional benefits. Pecans are packed with healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins such as vitamin E and B-complex vitamins. The addition of maple syrup provides natural sweetness along with antioxidants, making these bars a better alternative to many traditional desserts.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Nut Options: If you’re nut-sensitive or just want a variation, consider using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
– Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these bars gluten-free.
– Sweetener Swap: For a reduced-sugar option, try using coconut sugar instead of brown and granulated sugars.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Overmixing the Crust: When preparing the crust, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture.
– Underbaking the Filling: Ensure you don’t underbake the filling. It should be set around the edges and only slightly jiggly in the center for optimal texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store your Maple Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving if desired.

Conclusion

These Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a quick, easy, and delicious way to create a dessert that everyone will adore. With their sweet, nutty flavor and simple preparation, they are destined to become one of your go-to recipes. Give them a try today and let us know how they turn out!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! They can be prepared a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Q: What can I serve with these bars?
A: Pair them with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious indulgence!

Q: Are these bars suitable for freezing?
A: Yes, these bars freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to two months.

Q: Can I add chocolate to the filling?
A: A handful of chocolate chips can make a delightful addition to the filling if you’d like to add a chocolatey twist!