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Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars

These Best Ever Pecan Pie Bars bring all the gooey, nutty richness of traditional pecan pie—without the fuss of rolling dough. Buttery shortbread crust, luscious caramelized pecan topping, and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them the perfect dessert for holidays or anytime indulgence.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings 16

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/8 teaspoon salt 1/4 + 1/8 tsp

For the Pecan Topping:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups coarsely chopped pecans

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 13x9-inch baking dish with foil, leaving a 2-inch overhang on all sides. Lightly spray with nonstick spray.
  • In a bowl, cream softened butter until smooth. Add brown sugar and salt; beat until light and fluffy.
  • Gradually mix in flour until the dough comes together in crumbly clumps.
  • Press dough into the bottom of the prepared pan and smooth evenly with the back of a measuring cup.
  • Bake crust for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, make the pecan topping.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, brown sugar, honey, cream, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer for exactly 1 minute.
  • Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans.
  • Immediately pour the pecan mixture over the hot crust and spread evenly.
  • Return to oven and bake 12–18 minutes until top is bubbling across the surface.
  • Cool completely in the pan. For quicker cooling, transfer to the fridge.
  • Use foil overhang to lift bars out, peel away foil, and slice into 16 bars.

Notes

  • Don’t overbake the pecan topping—it should still look a little soft in the center when you pull it out.
  • Line your pan well with foil for easy lifting and clean cuts.
  • For extra flavor, toast the pecans briefly before mixing them into the topping.
  • These bars freeze well—just wrap tightly and thaw before serving.