Maple Pecan Pie Bars: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert

Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, combining the rich, nutty flavors of pecans with the sweet, caramel-like essence of maple syrup. This dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a touch of warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Originating from the Southern United States, pecan pie has long been a staple at holiday celebrations, and these bars offer a convenient, portable version that is perfect for sharing.

People love Maple Pecan Pie Bars for their irresistible combination of crunchy pecans and a gooey, sweet filling that melts in your mouth. The buttery crust adds a delightful texture, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and sensations. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply craving a sweet treat, these bars are sure to impress your family and friends with their deliciousness and ease of preparation.

Ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons ice water (more if needed)
• For the filling:
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• For garnish (optional):
• Whipped cream
• Extra chopped pecans

Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
3. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and ice water. Gradually add this mixture to the flour and butter mixture, stirring until the dough begins to come together. If the dough is too crumbly, add more ice water, one teaspoon at a time, until it holds together.
5. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use a fork to poke holes in the crust to prevent it from puffing up while baking.
6. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped pecans, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. Whisk the mixture together until it is smooth and well combined. Make sure there are no lumps of brown sugar remaining.
3. Once the crust has cooled slightly, pour the pecan filling over the crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Cooking Process

1. Return the baking pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the edges are bubbly. The center may still be slightly jiggly, but it will firm up as it cools.
2. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 1 hour. This cooling time is crucial for the filling to set properly.
3. After the bars have cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan. Transfer to a cutting board.
4. Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for cleaner edges.

Assembling and Serving

1. For an extra touch, you can serve the maple pecan pie bars with a dollop of whipped cream on top. This adds a creamy contrast to the sweet and nutty flavors of the bars.
2. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the whipped cream for added texture and visual appeal.
3. These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.

Tips for Perfect Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Conclusion:

In summary, these Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a delightful dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and nuttiness. The rich, gooey maple filling combined with the crunchy pecans creates a texture and flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or just as a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of decadence. You can also experiment with variations by adding chocolate chips for a richer flavor or incorporating a hint of bourbon for a sophisticated twist. We encourage you to try this Maple Pecan Pie Bars recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Your feedback and creativity can inspire others to enjoy this delicious treat. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor every bite of these delightful bars!

Print