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Crispy Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars

Crispy Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars - featured image

A simplified, bar-style version of traditional pecan pie featuring a crispy, toasted pecan crust and a gooey, bourbon-infused filling topped with flaky sea salt.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup pecan halves, finely chopped and toasted
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup light corn syrup
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons bourbon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecan halves, whole or halved
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides, and grease lightly.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, and finely chopped toasted pecans. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
  4. While the crust bakes, whisk together dark brown sugar, corn syrup, and melted butter in a large bowl until smooth.
  5. Whisk in the eggs vigorously, then stir in the bourbon and vanilla extract.
  6. Pour the filling over the hot crust and spread evenly. Arrange whole pecan halves on top, pressing gently to adhere.
  7. Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 25-30 minutes until edges are set but the center has a slight jiggle.
  8. Remove from oven and sprinkle generously with flaky sea salt.
  9. Cool in the pan for at least 1 hour, then refrigerate for 2-3 hours or overnight until firm.
  10. Lift bars out using the parchment sling and cut into squares.

Notes

Toast pecans before chopping for the crust to enhance flavor and crunch. Ensure eggs are at room temperature to prevent the filling from separating. Do not cut the bars while warm as they will fall apart; chilling is essential for clean cuts. For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie bars, bourbon dessert, crispy crust, easy dessert, fall baking, holiday dessert, gluten-free option