Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
The easiest way to enjoy the flavors of pecan pie – no fuss, no stress, just pure deliciousness!
If you’ve ever craved the warm, nutty, caramel-like taste of a classic Southern pecan pie, but didn’t want to deal with making pie dough, rolling, and blind baking, then these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are about to become your new go-to dessert. They’re buttery, gooey, crunchy, and sweet—all the best parts of a pecan pie, baked into easy-to-cut bars that you can whip up in under an hour.
Perfect for holidays, bake sales, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight treat, these bars will disappear fast. Best of all? They require only a handful of ingredients and come together with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: No complicated pie crust, just a simple shortbread-style base.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves pecan pie flavors, but bars make them easier to serve.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, caramel drizzle, or even a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be baked in advance and stored for several days.
- Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven & Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. - Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, stir together the flour, melted butter, and powdered sugar until combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes, just until set (do not over-bake).
- Prepare the Pecan Filling
- In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly coated.
- Assemble & Bake
- Pour the pecan mixture over the warm crust and spread evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly golden.
- Cool & Slice
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Serve as is, or with whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Recipe Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: About 12 bars
- Tips for Success
- Use dark brown sugar for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Toast your pecans lightly before adding them for extra nuttiness.
- For easier slicing, chill the bars in the fridge for 30 minutes before cutting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container—room temperature up to 3 days, fridge up to 1 week.
- Variations
- Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars: Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the filling.
- Salted Caramel Pecan Bars: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour for the crust.
- Holiday Twist: Add a splash of bourbon or maple syrup to the filling for a seasonal flavor boost.
- Serving Ideas
- With a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a warm-and-cold contrast.
- On a dessert platter with brownies, cookies, and other bite-sized sweets.
- Wrapped individually for bake sales or gifts.
- Nutrition (per bar, approx.)
- Calories: 210
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 13g
- Protein: 3g
- FAQs
Q: Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Use a 9×13 inch pan and increase the baking time slightly.
Q: Can I freeze pecan pie bars?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, these bars taste even better the next day once the flavors have settled.i
nal Thoughts:
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars deliver everything you love about pecan pie—rich, sweet, nutty flavor—without the extra work. Perfect for busy bakers, holiday hosts, or anyone who wants a fuss-free dessert that still impresses.