All the Flavor of Classic Pecan Pie—No Rolling Pin Required!
If you’re craving that gooey, nutty flavor of pecan pie but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are your dream come true. A buttery shortbread crust is topped with a rich, caramel-like pecan filling that bakes to golden perfection. No pie crust to fuss with—just a few simple ingredients, one pan, and big rewards. They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you want a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Gooey Pecan Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides for easy lifting later. - Make the Crust
In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, flour, powdered sugar, and salt until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan. - Bake the Crust
Bake for 15 minutes, just until the edges begin to lightly brown. Remove from the oven and set aside. - Make the Pecan Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, flour, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans. - Assemble and Bake Again
Pour the pecan filling evenly over the warm, pre-baked crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set in the center and the top is golden. - Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift them out, then slice into squares or rectangles.
Tips & Variations
- Use Dark Corn Syrup: For a deeper, richer flavor, you can substitute dark corn syrup for light.
- Try Toasted Pecans: Toasting the pecans beforehand adds an extra layer of nutty flavor.
- Add a Pinch of Cinnamon or Bourbon: For a warm twist, add ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or 1 tablespoon bourbon to the filling.
- Go Nut-Free (Sort of): Substitute chopped walnuts or almonds if you’re low on pecans—or create a nut blend!
- Make Mini Bars: Cut into small bites for holiday platters or party trays.
How to Store
- Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate for up to 5–6 days. Let come to room temp before serving for best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These bars are perfect for making a day or two in advance. Just store them covered and slice when you’re ready to serve.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust instead of the shortbread base?
You could, but the buttery shortbread crust is what makes these bars so irresistible and easy—no rolling or chilling required.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the sugar in the filling, but keep in mind that the classic pecan pie flavor relies on that caramelized sweetness.
Are these bars supposed to be gooey in the middle?
Yes! The filling should be set but still soft and gooey—just like a traditional pecan pie. Let them cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Final Thoughts
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are proof that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a dessert that tastes like you did. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this recipe is a go-to for busy bakers and sweet tooths alike. Rich, buttery, nutty, and irresistibly gooey—this is pecan pie without the pie drama.