If you’re craving the rich, buttery sweetness of pecan pie but want something quicker and easier to share, the Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe is exactly what you need. These bars capture all the classic flavors of traditional pecan pie in a convenient, sliceable form that’s perfect for potlucks, snacks, or dessert on a busy weeknight. With a flaky pie crust base and a luxuriously gooey pecan filling, this recipe offers indulgence without any fuss, making it an instant favorite for anyone who loves that perfect combo of crunch and caramelized goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple with just a handful of pantry staples that come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in achieving that iconic pecan pie taste and satisfying bar consistency.
- Refrigerated pie crusts (16 oz, 2 crusts): Using pre-made crusts saves time and provides a flaky, buttery base that’s hard to beat.
- Light corn syrup (1 cup): This adds sweetness and helps the filling set with the perfect sticky consistency.
- Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Gives a deep molasses flavor and adds richness to the filling.
- Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup): Boosts the buttery flavor and lends moisture to the filling.
- Large eggs (3): Eggs bind everything together and create the custard-like texture inside the bars.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the sweet notes with a warm, aromatic finish.
- Pecan halves (1 1/2 cups): The star ingredient for that signature crunch and nutty flavor.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch balances the sweetness and sharpens all the flavors.
How to Make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature allows the crust to bake evenly while giving the filling time to set without overcooking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly so the bars don’t stick and come out cleanly when sliced.
Step 2: Lay the Pie Crust
Unroll those refrigerated pie crusts and gently press them into the bottom of your prepared baking pan. Make sure to cover the entire surface without stretching the dough too thin, which helps create a sturdy, flaky base to hold all that rich, pecan filling.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Stir in the pecan halves so every nut is fully coated with the sweet filling—this ensures each bite bursts with flavor and crunch.
Step 4: Pour and Spread Filling Evenly
Pour the luscious pecan mixture over the pie crust base in your baking pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly, making sure the nuts stay well distributed so you get that perfect pecan ratio in every bar.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The filling should be set and the top should turn a gorgeous golden brown. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan—that resting time is key for clean, easy slicing and for the filling to firm up beautifully.
How to Serve Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar or add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side complements these bars wonderfully by balancing their rich sweetness with creamy smoothness.
Side Dishes
Serve these with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for the perfect mid-afternoon treat. They also pair nicely with fresh seasonal fruit like sliced apples or pears to add a fresh contrast to the rich pecan filling.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or holiday gatherings, cut the bars into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a decorative platter lined with parchment. You can also layer them with chocolate ganache or sprinkle chopped toasted pecans on top for an extra layer of texture and visual appeal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any uneaten bars in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to three days. The bars stay moist and delicious without drying out, making them perfect for easy grab-and-go snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or storing in a freezer-safe container. They’ll last up to 2 months frozen. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Reheating
If you like your bars warm, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds, or place the whole pan in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked feel without toughening the crust.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you prefer making your own crust, feel free to substitute it in. Just roll it out to fit the 9×13-inch pan and proceed as usual for a more personalized touch.
Is it possible to make the bars gluten-free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free pie crusts available in stores or make your own gluten-free dough. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Can I substitute the corn syrup in this recipe?
Light corn syrup helps with texture and sweetness, but if you’re avoiding it, you can try using maple syrup or honey. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might change slightly, but it still turns out delightful.
What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and make sure the bars are completely cooled before slicing. Running the knife under hot water and drying it before each cut helps achieve neat edges.
Can I add chocolate chips to the filling?
Definitely! Adding chocolate chips offers a delicious twist, creating a gooey mix of chocolate and pecan flavors that’s irresistible—just stir them in with the pecans before baking.
Final Thoughts
The Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy all the best parts of traditional pecan pie, without the fuss of making individual pies. Whether you’re sharing with friends or treating yourself to a cozy afternoon snack, these bars are guaranteed to bring smiles and satisfy that sweet tooth with minimal effort. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your new go-to for quick, delicious decadence!
Print
Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars offer all the rich, buttery flavor of classic pecan pie but in a simple, easy-to-make bar form. Made with refrigerated pie crusts and a luscious pecan filling, these bars are perfect for quick baking and satisfying any sweet tooth with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts)
Filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the bars.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts and fit them carefully into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Press down gently to cover the entire bottom evenly, forming the base for your pecan pie bars.
- Make Filling: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Then stir in the pecan halves so they are evenly coated with the filling mixture.
- Pour Filling: Pour the prepared pecan filling evenly over the pie crust in the baking pan, spreading it carefully to create a uniform layer.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. Once baked, allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares to serve.
Notes
- Ensure the pie crust covers the entire bottom of the pan to prevent filling from leaking under.
- Allow the bars to cool completely to help them set properly before cutting.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast pecans before adding to the filling.
