Name: Gooey Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; For the filling:; 3 large eggs; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 cup corn syrup (light or dark); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 cups chopped pecans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars are the ideal combination of convenience and indulgence. You get the same rich, sticky pecan pie flavor without having to deal with rolling out pie dough. The shortbread crust provides a sturdy, buttery base that holds up beautifully to the luscious caramel-pecan topping. They’re easy to make ahead, transport well, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Salt
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the filling:

Eggs
Brown sugar
Corn syrup (light or dark)
Vanilla extract
Salt
Unsalted butter, melted
Chopped pecans

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil, leaving overhang for easy removal.
In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Stir in the chopped pecans.
Pour the filling over the partially baked crust and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly.
Cool completely in the pan, then chill for 1–2 hours before slicing into bars for clean edges.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 bars, depending on the size of your cuts.
Prep time is about 20 minutes.
Bake time is 45–50 minutes total.
Cool time is at least 2 hours before slicing.

Variations

Chocolate drizzle: Add melted dark or semi-sweet chocolate on top after baking.
Bourbon twist: Mix 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon into the filling for added depth.
Maple flavor: Replace part or all of the corn syrup with pure maple syrup.
Nut mix: Try using walnuts or a combo of nuts for variety.
Mini bars: Bake in a mini muffin tin for bite-sized pecan pie treats.

Storage/Reheating

Storage:

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigerate for up to 5–6 days for longer freshness.
Freeze for up to 2 months—place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating:

These bars are best served at room temperature.
For a warm treat, microwave a bar for about 10 seconds or heat in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these without corn syrup?

Yes, you can substitute with maple syrup, honey, or golden syrup, though the texture may vary slightly.

Why is my filling runny?

The bars may not have baked long enough. Make sure the center is set and allow them to fully cool before cutting.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making 1–2 days in advance. The flavor deepens over time.

Do I have to use parchment paper?

It’s highly recommended for easy removal and clean slicing, but you can grease the pan well if needed.

Can I use whole pecans instead of chopped?

Yes, but chopped pecans distribute more evenly and make slicing easier.

How do I get clean cuts?

Chill the bars first and use a sharp knife. Wipe the blade between cuts for best results.

Can I use a different crust?

Yes, graham cracker crust or a cookie crust can be used for a different texture and flavor.

Are these bars very sweet?

Yes, they are rich and sweet like traditional pecan pie. You can slightly reduce the sugar if desired.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger pan or two 9×13-inch pans, and watch the baking time closely.

Do these freeze well?

Yes, they freeze beautifully. Wrap tightly and thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert bar for pecan pie lovers. With their buttery crust and rich, nutty filling, they capture all the decadence of pecan pie in an easy, portable format. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a bake sale, or just treating yourself, these bars are a guaranteed hit.