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Pecan pie, with its rich, gooey filling and crunchy nuts, is a beloved dessert that has graced tables during holidays and special occasions for generations. Originating from the Southern United States, this decadent pastry is known for its sweet and nutty flavor profile, making it a favorite among dessert enthusiasts. However, while traditional pecan pie has its charm, there’s a modern twist that’s capturing hearts and taste buds alike: sweet sticky pecan pie bars.

Sweet Sticky Pecan Pie Bars

Discover the delectable joy of Sweet Sticky Pecan Pie Bars, a fabulous twist on the classic pecan pie that everyone loves. With a buttery, crumbly crust and a rich, gooey filling, these bars are perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or cozy family dinners. Easy to serve and share, they boast the same sweet and nutty flavors you adore in traditional pecan pie. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dessert that combines convenience with elegance!

Ingredients
  

For the crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup powdered sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the filling:

1 cup light corn syrup

3/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 ½ cups pecan halves (or coarsely chopped, as per your preference)

1 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for topping)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust:

    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

      - In a medium mixing bowl, blend together the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt.

        - Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with no large butter pieces remaining.

          - Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Make sure the crust is compact and uniform.

            - Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

              Make the Filling:

                - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.

                  - Gently fold in the pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated and distributed throughout the mixture.

                    Combine:

                      - Carefully pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust. Use a spatula to spread the filling evenly across the crust, ensuring there are no bare spots.

                        - If desired, sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for added flavor.

                          Bake:

                            - Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed. The center should gently jiggle but will firm up as it cools.

                              Cool and Slice:

                                - Allow the pecan pie bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack to set properly. Once cooled, use the edges of the parchment paper or grease to lift the entire dessert out of the pan.

                                  - Carefully slice into squares or bars, depending on your desired serving size.

                                    Serve:

                                      - Indulge in the Sweet Sticky Pecan Pie Bars as they are, or elevate the experience with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if you like!

                                        Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12-16 bars

                                          - Presentation Tips: Serve the bars on a decorative platter, dusted lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, and garnished with a few extra pecans scattered around for visual appeal.