INGREDIENTS You’ll Need:

Here’s what you need to whip up these delicious Gooey Pecan Pie Bars. Don’t worry, it’s a simple list, I promise!

1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the base of our crust.
1/2 cup whole wheat flour: I like to sneak this in for extra fiber – a simple nutrition hack. If you don’t have it, just use all all-purpose flour.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: This is essential for a tender, flavorful crust.
1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture to the crust.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the crust.
1 cup packed brown sugar: This is the base of our gooey filling.
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and flavor to the pecan filling.
1/4 cup corn syrup: Helps create that signature gooey texture.
1/4 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and helps bind the filling together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the filling.
3 cups pecan halves: The star of the show!

Raw ingredients for making Gooey Pecan Pie Bars, including flour, butter, pecans, and sugar.

Trust me, this Gooey 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.

Nutrition-focused ingredient swaps: No worries if you don’t have heavy cream – I often use half-and-half for a slightly lighter version of these pecan dessert bars. You could also add a tablespoon of flaxseed meal to the crust for extra omega-3s and fiber! My family gets extra nutrition when I add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the pecan filling; it adds warmth and a hint of spice.

Budget-friendly healthy alternatives: This Gooey Pecan Pie Bars proves nutritious doesn’t mean expensive. You can often find pecans on sale around the holidays, so stock up then!

Ingredient prep shortcuts: Soften your butter in the microwave for a few seconds (but don’t melt it!). Measure out all your ingredients before you start baking – it makes the whole process go so much smoother. Sanity-saving nutrition, indeed!

Let’s Make it Happen!

Ready to bake these delicious Gooey Pecan Pie Bars? Let’s do it! I promise, it’s easier than you think.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Getting this ready ahead of time is a nutrition hack I use for every baking recipe.
Make the crust: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, butter, and salt. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This nutritious Gooey Pecan Pie Bars recipe is easier than you think!
Press the crust: Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to really pack it down.
Bake the crust: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. This step is important to ensure the crust is sturdy enough to hold the filling. While that crust is baking, check out these Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars.
Make the filling: While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Your Gooey Pecan Pie Bars should smell nourishing by now!
Add the pecans: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the pecan halves. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Pour the filling: Pour the pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly. Don’t worry if your Gooey Pecan Pie Bars looks a little uneven at this point – it will all even out in the oven.
Bake the bars: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. The center should be slightly gooey. In my busy kitchen, this nutritious Gooey Pecan Pie Bars usually takes about 28 minutes.
Cool completely: Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This is important to prevent them from falling apart. Perfect time to prep tomorrow’s lunch!
Cut and enjoy: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares and serve. Enjoy every bite of these chewy pecan bars!

Here’s where I used to struggle with my Gooey Pecan Pie Bars – I wouldn’t let them cool enough and they would fall apart! Learn from my experience! While your Gooey Pecan Pie Bars is cooking, take a moment to appreciate nourishing your family!

How We Love to Eat This!

So, you’ve baked these amazing Gooey Pecan Pie Bars, now what? Here’s how my family loves to enjoy them!

With a scoop of vanilla ice cream: This is a classic combination that’s always a hit. The cold ice cream complements the warm, gooey bars perfectly.
With a dollop of whipped cream: For a lighter option, try serving these homemade pecan bars with a dollop of homemade whipped cream.
As an afternoon snack: These bars are perfect for satisfying those mid-afternoon sweet cravings. Just be mindful of portion sizes! The kids devour this nutritious Gooey Pecan Pie Bars when I serve it with a glass of milk.
For dessert after dinner: These bars make a simple yet satisfying dessert after a family meal.
At potlucks and gatherings: These pecan pie squares are always a crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to transport and everyone loves them!
With a cup of coffee or tea: The perfect pairing for a cozy afternoon treat.

This Gooey Pecan Pie Bars is perfect for those busy weeknights when we need good nutrition fast! I also love making a batch of these when we have friends coming over. Everyone always raves about them!

Kid-approved healthy side dishes: My kids love these with a side of fruit salad. It’s a great way to balance out the sweetness with some natural vitamins and fiber. Presentation tips: I like to arrange the Gooey Pecan Pie Bars on a platter and sprinkle them with powdered sugar for a festive touch.

Leftover ideas: Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. (Though, in my house, they never last that long! 😉)

Seasonal variations: In the fall, I like to add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the filling. In the summer, I sometimes top them with fresh berries. This nutritious Gooey Pecan Pie Bars reminds me of another family-healthy favorite: the Halloween Oreo Brownie Bars!

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some common questions I get asked about these Gooey Pecan Pie Bars.

Q: Is this Gooey Pecan Pie Bars really nutritious enough for growing kids?
A: While these are definitely a treat, I try to sneak in some extra nutrition where I can! The whole wheat flour adds fiber, and pecans are a good source of healthy fats and antioxidants. Plus, homemade is always better than store-bought when it comes to controlling ingredients. I always look for small ways to improve any dessert recipe.

Q: What if my picky eater won’t try this healthy Gooey Pecan Pie Bars?
A: Start small! Offer a tiny piece alongside something they already love. You can also try involving them in the baking process – kids are often more willing to try things they helped make. Call them pecan dessert bars! Sometimes a fun name can make a big difference!

Q: Can I meal prep this Gooey Pecan Pie Bars for busy weeks ahead?
A: Absolutely! These bars are great for meal prepping. You can bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. They’re perfect for packing in lunchboxes or enjoying as an after-school snack.

Q: Can I freeze these Gooey Pecan Pie Bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2-3 months.

Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: While pecans are the traditional choice, you can definitely experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Each nut will give the bars a slightly different flavor and texture. If your kids love this wholesome recipe, they’ll go crazy for Layered Chocolate Pecan Pie!

Q: Can I make these Gooey Pecan Pie Bars gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.

Q: What’s the secret to getting that perfectly gooey filling?
A: The key is to use a good quality corn syrup and to not overbake the bars. The center should still be slightly gooey when you take them out of the oven. For more simple nutrition ideas for busy families, check out this Pecan pie bar recipe with sweet and salty flavor!

Final Thoughts:

These Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a symbol of family, tradition, and the joy of sharing good food. This recipe truly supports my family’s nutrition goals by offering a homemade treat that’s slightly healthier than store-bought options and packed with wholesome ingredients.

My Gooey Pecan Pie Bars Nutrition Hacks:

Whole Wheat Flour: Sneaking in whole wheat flour adds fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion and keeping everyone feeling full and satisfied.
Portion Control: We enjoy these bars as a treat, focusing on moderation and mindful eating.
Nutrient-Rich Toppings: I often top these bars with fresh berries or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added vitamins and protein.

Family-Tested Healthy Gooey Pecan Pie Bars Variations:

Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the pecan filling for a decadent twist.
Salted Caramel Pecan Pie Bars: Drizzle with salted caramel sauce after baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Maple Pecan Pie Bars: Substitute maple syrup for the corn syrup in the filling for a more natural sweetener. For even more ideas, try this Pecan Pie Bars Recipe (1,000 Times Easier Than Actual Pie!) | The …!

My youngest loves the chocolate chip version, while my husband prefers the salted caramel. I personally love the maple pecan pie bars – they have a lovely, warm flavor.

I encourage you to make this recipe your own. Experiment with different variations, adjust the sweetness to your liking, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! I hope these Gooey Pecan Pie Bars become a cherished part of your family’s traditions, bringing joy and nourishment to your table for years to come.

Remember, feeding your family well doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and some simple, delicious recipes like this one, you can create a healthy and happy home. Go for it! I know you can make a delicious batch of Gooey Pecan Pie Bars and share them with the people you love! 💕 If you need even more Gooey Pecan Pie Bars inspiration, take a look at these Gooey Pecan Pie Bars with a Shortbread Crust – Cloudy Kitchen!

Gooey Pecan Pie Bars

Print Recipe

These Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious and easy twist on classic pecan pie. Featuring a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, decadent pecan filling, they’re perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you crave a sweet treat.

Author: Juliette
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 65 minutes
Yield: 16 servings
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup powdered 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 light corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
2 cups pecan halves

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Instructions

Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered 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.
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 one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
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 golden brown.
Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Notes

For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the filling. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.