These Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a yummy twist on the classic pie! They have a crunchy pecan topping and a sweet, sticky maple filling that makes each bite delightful.
Who knew bars could be this tasty? I love making them for friends and family—everyone ends up fighting for seconds! 😄 They’re perfect with a cup of coffee or as a cheeky dessert treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the crust. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free option.
Pecans: Both chopped pecans in the crust and halves on top are essential for flavor and texture. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch instead!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup gives a unique sweetness and rich flavor. Agave syrup works as a good substitute, but the taste will be a bit different. Honey is another option if you don’t mind its flavor.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control of flavor. If you need a dairy-free version, coconut oil or vegan butter will work well.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crust?
The crust is the first step, and getting it just right matters! The crust should be crumbly but hold together when pressed. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Mix flour, chopped pecans, sugar, and salt, then stir in melted butter until combined.
- Be sure to press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan; this helps it stay together during baking.
- Bake just until it starts to turn golden. This ensures it has a slight crunch that contrasts nicely with the filling.
Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- Optional: Flaky sea salt, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dessert takes about 15 minutes of prep time and another 45-50 minutes for baking, plus some time to cool. In total, plan for around 1 hour and 15 minutes to get everything ready and let it cool before serving. Perfect for a cozy gathering or a sweet treat at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some extra paper on the sides. This will help you lift the bars out later!
2. Make the Crust:
In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, finely chopped pecans, granulated sugar, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until everything is well combined and crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form a crust.
3. Bake the Crust:
Pop the crust into the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until it starts to turn golden brown. Once it’s ready, take it out and let it cool while you prepare the filling.
4. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, 1 tablespoon of flour, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the filling is smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the Bars:
Scatter the pecan halves evenly over the cooled crust. Then, pour the maple filling over the pecans, spreading it gently to ensure they are covered evenly.
6. Bake the Bars:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30-35 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the filling is set but still slightly jiggles in the center. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking!
7. Cool and Cut:
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. After it’s cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or rectangles as you prefer!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
For that extra touch, sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top before serving. These bars are perfect on their own or can be served alongside a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy the delightful flavors of maple and nuts!
Can I Use Different Nuts Instead of Pecans?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans or have an allergy, you can substitute with walnuts or even almonds for a similar crunchy texture. Just chop them to a similar size as the pecans!
How Do I Store Leftover Maple Pecan Pie Bars?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture!
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, and make sure to check the ingredients on your butter and other products to ensure they’re gluten-free!
How Do I Know When the Filling Is Set?
The filling should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the center when you take it out of the oven. It will firm up more as it cools, so make sure not to overbake! A toothpick inserted in the edges should come out clean, but the center will still be soft.
