Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

These easy pecan pie bars have a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey pecan topping. They deliver all the flavor of classic pecan pie without the fuss of making a pie crust. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Base

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar

For the Pecan Filling

1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ½ cups chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
3. In a bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar. Mix until a soft, crumbly dough forms.
4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
5. Bake the crust for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
7. Stir in the chopped pecans.
8. Remove the crust from the oven and immediately pour the pecan mixture evenly over the warm crust.
9. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, until the filling is set around the edges and slightly soft in the center.
10. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.
11. Refrigerate for about 1 hour for cleaner slices.
12. Lift the bars out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.

Method

Make the buttery shortbread base first and partially bake it until lightly golden. Prepare the sweet pecan filling while the crust is baking, then pour it over the warm crust and bake again until the filling is set. Cool completely before slicing.

Tips

Use softened butter for a smoother crust.

Do not overbake the filling. The center should have a slight softness when the bars first come out of the oven.

Toast the pecans beforehand for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

For neat slices, chill the bars before cutting.

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Approximate per bar, assuming 16 bars:

Calories: 290
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Protein: 3 g
Fat: 16 g
Sugar: 25 g
Sodium: 120 mg

Nutrition will vary depending on the exact ingredients and serving size.

Conclusion

These “lazy girl” pecan pie bars are an easy alternative to traditional pecan pie. With a tender buttery crust and gooey, nutty topping, they’re simple enough for beginners and delicious enough to disappear quickly at any gathering.