I am so excited to share my recipe for Southern Pecan Pie Bars! As busy moms, we are always on the lookout for delicious, easy-to-make treats that satisfy our sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition. These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are just that – a perfect balance of gooey, nutty goodness with a simple shortbread crust that even the kids will love.
One of the first times I ever made these Southern Pecan Pie Bars, my youngest was going through a picky eating phase. I was desperate to find something he would actually enjoy that wasn’t loaded with refined sugar and artificial ingredients. These Southern Pecan Pie Bars were a total win. The pecans provide healthy fats, and I use a touch of maple syrup to sweeten them, making them a much better choice than traditional pecan pie. The look on his face when he took that first bite? Priceless! It was such a relief to find a dessert that everyone in the family devoured without any complaints!
These Southern Pecan Pie Bars have become a staple in our home. They’re perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or even just a simple after-school treat. What I love most is how easily they can be adapted to fit your family’s dietary needs. I often swap out the butter in the crust for coconut oil to make them dairy-free, and they are always a hit! They are so similar to my Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars recipe which is also a huge win with the kiddos!
As busy moms, we’re constantly juggling a million things at once. That’s why I’m so passionate about creating recipes that are not only nutritious but also incredibly simple to make. I know how overwhelming it can be to try to feed your family healthy meals when you’re short on time and energy. These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are my way of offering a little bit of sanity-saving nutrition to my fellow moms.
If you’re a busy mom looking for a simple, delicious, and relatively healthy treat to add to your repertoire, you’ve come to the right place. These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are a true crowd-pleaser, and I can’t wait for you to try them! So, grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:
Here’s what you need to make these delicious Southern Pecan Pie Bars. Don’t worry, the ingredient list is short and sweet – just how we like it!
- For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (I sometimes use whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons ice water
- For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups pecan halves or pieces
Trust me, this Southern Pecan Pie Bars ingredient list is simple because busy moms need nutrition without complexity! You can find these wholesome ingredients at your regular grocery store. You can even try to get some of these at your local farmers market! I love to get my honey and pecans from my local market because they are so fresh!
No worries if you don’t have maple syrup – I use honey for extra nutrients in my Southern Pecan Pie Bars, and it tastes just as delicious! You can also use coconut sugar in place of brown sugar. These Southern Pecan Pie Bars prove nutritious doesn’t mean expensive. For my family, I get extra nutrition when I add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the shortbread crust. It doesn’t change the taste, but it gives a nutritional boost!
Here’s a Southern Pecan Pie Bars nutrition hack that changed our family’s health: I sneak in a handful of chopped walnuts along with the pecans. Walnuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for brain health. My kids never even notice!
These pecan pie squares are great for a treat that your family will enjoy. If you have any questions about substitutions, let me know in the comments below. I’m always here to help you navigate the world of simple nutrition!
Let’s Make it Happen!
Alright, let’s get down to business and make these incredible Southern Pecan Pie Bars! I’ve broken it down into easy-to-follow steps so even if you’re new to baking, you’ll be able to whip these up without any stress.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is an important first step, because you want to make sure your oven is ready to go. This ensures the Southern Pecan Pie Bars bake evenly.
- Make the Shortbread Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake the Crust: Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Prepare the Pecan Filling: While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, maple syrup (or honey), eggs, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Add Pecans: Stir in the pecan halves or pieces.
- Pour Filling over Crust: Once the crust is lightly golden, remove it from the oven and pour the pecan filling evenly over the top.
- Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. Your Southern Pecan Pie Bars should smell nourishing by now.
- Cool Completely: Let the Southern Pecan Pie Bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This is crucial! If you try to cut them while they’re still warm, they’ll be too gooey and fall apart.
- Cut and Serve: Once cooled, cut into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Here’s where I used to struggle with my Southern Pecan Pie Bars – I would always try to cut them too soon! Learn from my experience and be patient! In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Southern Pecan Pie Bars usually takes about an hour from start to finish, including baking time.
While your Southern Pecan Pie Bars is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family! It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, but taking the time to bake something homemade is a beautiful way to show your love.
Don’t worry if your Southern Pecan Pie Bars looks a little uneven – that’s part of the charm of homemade baking! For a fun twist on this pecan bars recipe, try sprinkling a little sea salt on top before baking. The salty-sweet combination is amazing!
These gooey pecan pie bars are so easy to make with minimal ingredients. Perfect for the busy mom! This easy pecan pie bars recipe will soon be your go-to!
How We Love to Eat This!
These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are delicious on their own, but we also love to pair them with a few simple sides to make it a complete treat.
The kids devour this nutritious Southern Pecan Pie Bars when I serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of berries. The yogurt adds a creamy coolness that complements the richness of the pecan bars recipe, and the berries provide a burst of fresh flavor and antioxidants. It’s a win-win!
This Southern Pecan Pie Bars is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I often make a batch on Sunday evenings and then pack them in the kids’ lunchboxes throughout the week. It’s a much healthier alternative to processed snacks, and they always get rave reviews.
For a more decadent treat, try serving these Southern Pecan Pie Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s the perfect dessert for special occasions or when you just need a little bit of extra indulgence. My husband is a huge fan of this combination!
One of my favorite things about these Southern Pecan Pie Bars is that they’re so versatile. You can easily adapt them to fit different seasons or holidays. For example, during the fall, I like to add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor. And during the holidays, I sometimes top them with a sprinkle of chopped cranberries for a festive touch.
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Or, you can freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to two months.
When my friends come over, they always rave about how delicious and wholesome these Southern Pecan Pie Bars are. They’re always surprised to learn how easy they are to make. I love sharing this recipe with other busy moms because I know how much it can simplify their lives.
For a fun twist, try making these Southern Pecan Pie Bars in mini muffin tins. They’re perfect for parties or when you want to control portion sizes.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
I know you probably have some questions about these Southern Pecan Pie Bars, so I’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to help you out.
1. Is this Southern Pecan Pie Bars really nutritious enough for growing kids?
Absolutely! These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are packed with healthy fats from the pecans, which are essential for brain development. I also use maple syrup or honey as a natural sweetener, which is a much better option than refined sugar. Plus, I often sneak in a little whole wheat flour for added fiber. Of course, everything in moderation!
2. What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Southern Pecan Pie Bars?
Ah, the age-old question! One trick I’ve found helpful is to get your picky eater involved in the baking process. Let them help you measure ingredients or stir the filling. When kids feel like they’ve contributed to making something, they’re more likely to try it. And remember, presentation is key! Cut the bars into fun shapes using cookie cutters to make them more appealing.
3. Can I meal prep this Southern Pecan Pie Bars for busy weeks ahead?
Definitely! These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are perfect for meal prepping. You can bake a batch on the weekend and then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They’re also freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and freeze individual squares for a quick and easy snack anytime.
4. Can I make these Southern Pecan Pie Bars gluten-free?
Yes, you can! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had great success using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in this recipe. Just be sure to check that all of your other ingredients are also gluten-free.
5. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely reduce the amount of sugar in this recipe. Start by reducing the brown sugar in the filling by a quarter. You can also try using a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Just keep in mind that this may alter the taste and texture of the Southern Pecan Pie Bars.
6. Can I use a different type of nut in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are the star of the show in these Southern Pecan Pie Bars, you can easily substitute them with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even cashews. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
7. My Southern Pecan Pie Bars filling is too runny. What did I do wrong?
A runny filling can be caused by a few different things. Make sure you’re using the correct measurements for all of your ingredients. Also, be sure to bake the bars for the full recommended time. If the filling is still runny after baking, you can try letting them cool completely in the fridge before cutting into squares.
I hope these answers have been helpful! Remember, I’m always here to support you on your simple nutrition journey. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions or concerns!
Final Thoughts:
These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are more than just a dessert – they’re a symbol of simple nutrition and family togetherness. I truly believe that nourishing our families doesn’t have to be complicated or stressful. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of love, we can create delicious and wholesome treats that everyone will enjoy. My Southern Pecan Pie Bars are a welcome treat in our house!
My Southern Pecan Pie Bars Nutrition Hacks:
- Sneak in Extra Fiber: I often add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the shortbread crust for a boost of fiber. My kids never even notice!
- Reduce the Sugar: I use maple syrup or honey as a natural sweetener instead of refined sugar. You can also reduce the amount of sweetener by a quarter without sacrificing taste.
- Add Healthy Fats: I sometimes add a handful of chopped walnuts to the filling for extra omega-3 fatty acids.
Here are a few family-tested healthy Southern Pecan Pie Bars variations:
- Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a decadent twist.
- Salted Caramel Pecan Pie Bars: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce after baking.
- Spiced Pecan Pie Bars: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the filling for a warm, cozy flavor.
My daughter loves the chocolate chip version, while my son prefers the salted caramel. My husband is a fan of the classic pecan pie squares, but he’ll happily devour any of these variations!
I encourage you to make these Southern Pecan Pie Bars your own. Experiment with different ingredients, try new flavor combinations, and don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of nourishing your family.
I hope you and your family love these Southern Pecan Pie Bars as much as we do. Remember, simple nutrition is the key to a happy and healthy family. You’ve got this, mama! Enjoy these shortbread pecan bars today! These gooey pecan pie bars are sure to be a hit!
These nutritious Southern Pecan Pie Bars remind me of another family-healthy favorite, my Gooey Pecan Pie Bars. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for my Pecan Pie Bars. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out Best Pecan Pie in Texas with Shortbread Crust. See here for more ideas: Pecan Pie Bars Recipe (1,000 Times Easier Than Actual Pie!) | The …. Or even here! RECIPE: https://sugarspunrun.com/pecan-pie-bars/ Perfectly nutty ….
Southern Pecan Pie Bars
These Southern Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious twist on the classic pie, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, nutty pecan filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 24 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4-6 tablespoons ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup corn syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Prick the crust all over with a fork.
- Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Make the Filling: While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Add the eggs and whisk until smooth. Stir in the pecan halves.
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden brown.
- Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Notes
Serve these pecan pie bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat!