Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Aluminum foil or parchment paper
- Pastry blender or two knives
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- For the Shortbread Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon optional
- For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups pecans chopped, lightly toasted
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- For the Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips for drizzling
- 1 tbsp flaky sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the foil or parchment.
- For the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from oven but keep the oven on.
- While the crust is baking, prepare the filling: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and chocolate chips.
- Pour the filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely at room temperature, about 2 hours.
- For best results, refrigerate for at least 1 hour after cooling to make cutting easier.
- For the optional topping: Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bars and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired.
- Use the foil or parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife, wiping the knife clean between cuts for neat edges.
Notes
Nutrition
Imagine it’s Thanksgiving morning, and your kitchen smells like cinnamon and toasted nuts. You’re juggling pie crusts, fillings, and a toddler. That’s when Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars come to the rescue. They bring the warmth of tradition without the stress.
These bars are a dream for holiday hosts. They combine buttery shortbread, caramel pecans, and dark chocolate. They’re easier than pie and impress everyone. Perfect for any occasion, they fit into your life, not the other way around.
Key Takeaways
- Simpler to make than traditional pies with no rolling or crimping required
- Perfect balance of crunchy pecans and rich chocolate in every bite
- Ideal for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or last-minute dessert emergencies
- Can be prepared ahead and stored for up to 3 days
- Uses pantry staples with optional upgrades for special occasions
What’s special about these bars? They’re forgiving. Burn the first batch? The chocolate drizzle covers it up. Short on time? The crust is easy to make. They’re dessert for real life—messy, hectic, and beautiful.
Introduction to Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
Why settle for ordinary pie when you can enjoy Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars? These treats combine the flavors of a classic pecan pie into a portable format. They have a buttery shortbread base and a caramel-kissed chocolate filling with toasted pecans. They’re perfect for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
What Makes These Bars Special?
Three elements make these bars stand out:
- Shortbread crust with a twist: A hint of cinnamon in the base adds warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Gooey filling perfection: Dark chocolate and rich caramel create a texture that’s firm yet soft.
- No-fuss serving: Unlike messy pies, these bars stay intact at gatherings.
The Perfect Combination of Flavors
These pecan pie bars balance flavors perfectly. The salty-sweet crust supports the bittersweet chocolate layer. Toasted pecans add an earthy crunch. As one baker says:
“It’s like your favorite candy bar grew up and put on a tuxedo – sophisticated but fun.”
This dessert is great for any time. Enjoy it after dinner with coffee or as a lunchbox surprise. For special occasions, drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle with flaky sea salt to make it even more special.
Ingredients for Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
Making these rich desserts starts with knowing each ingredient’s role. Whether you’re an expert or new to baking, knowing your ingredients is key. Let’s explore what you need and how to adjust the recipe to your taste.
Essential Ingredients List
Butter is the base of the shortbread crust, making it crumbly. Use unsalted butter to manage the salt. For the filling, you’ll need:
- Pecans (chopped or whole) – Toast them lightly for extra nuttiness.
- Dark corn syrup – This keeps the filling gooey without overpowering sweetness.
- Brown sugar – Adds caramel-like depth compared to regular sugar.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – Melt into pockets of rich flavor.
Don’t forget the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. They balance the sweetness perfectly.
Suggested Substitutions
Need to make dietary changes or missing ingredients? No worries. Here’s how to adjust the recipe while keeping that irresistible texture:
| Original Ingredient | Purpose | Swap Option |
|---|---|---|
| Corn syrup | Chewiness | Maple syrup or honey |
| All-purpose flour | Crust structure | Almond flour (gluten-free) |
| Semi-sweet chocolate | Richness | Dark chocolate (70%+) |
| Granulated sugar | Sweetness | Coconut sugar (lower glycemic) |
For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and dairy-free chocolate. Make sure substitutes have similar fat content for that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Are you ready to make these chocolate pecan bars that feel like holiday magic? We’ll break it down into three easy steps. You’ll learn to make the buttery crust, silky filling, and golden bake with ease.
Preparing the Crust
First, line a 9×13-inch pan with foil, leaving some overhang. This makes it easy to remove your sweet treats later. In a bowl, mix together:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Use a pastry blender to cut in 1 cup of cold cubed butter until it looks like coarse crumbs. Press it firmly into the pan. This helps prevent it from crumbling. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until it’s lightly golden.
Making the Filling
While the crust cools a bit, whisk together:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Add 2 cups chopped pecans and 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips. Pour this rich mixture over the warm crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. The sweetened condensed milk makes it gooey and perfect.
Baking to Perfection
Put the pan back in the oven for 30-35 minutes. The filling should be slightly puffed with golden edges. It will firm up as it cools. Let it cool completely at room temperature (about 2 hours), then refrigerate for 1 hour. Use the foil to lift the bars out before cutting them into squares with a sharp knife.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
Creating these dessert bars is a mix of skill and creativity. They’re perfect for any festive event or a quick dessert. Here are some holiday baking recipe tips to help you succeed. Follow these expert strategies to make your bars stand out.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Working with sticky fillings and crumbly crusts needs patience. Always let your bars cool completely before slicing. Cutting too soon can make the edges messy.
Chill the dough for 20 minutes before baking. This step helps the crust stay crisp and hold its shape. Toasting your pecans lightly in a dry skillet adds a nutty flavor to each bite.
If your filling becomes grainy, it might be because of overheating the sugar. Use medium-low heat and stir constantly until it’s fully dissolved.
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal
- Press crust firmly into corners to prevent crumbling
- Sprinkle sea salt flakes post-baking for balanced sweetness
Enhancements and Variations
Make this easy dessert recipe your own. Try using white chocolate drizzle or caramel swirls instead of dark chocolate chips. For a twist, add 1 tbsp bourbon to the filling for adults.
Mini chocolate chips add a nice texture contrast. Chopped candied ginger adds a zing. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free graham crackers or maple syrup instead of corn syrup.
“Adding espresso powder to the chocolate layer intensifies the richness without overpowering other flavors.”
Try layering techniques like alternating pecan clusters with chocolate chunks before baking. For holiday gifts, bake in mini tart pans and wrap in festive parchment.
Serving Suggestions
Make your dessert stand out by presenting these chocolate pecan pie bars with style. The right way to serve them turns a simple sweet treat into a stunning centerpiece. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or having a cozy night in, these tips will make every bite special.
Best Ways to Serve
Let the bars sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before cutting. This makes the caramelized filling soft and the edges clean. For an even more decadent dessert treat, warm a portion in the microwave for 10 seconds. Then, top it with vanilla bean ice cream.
For special occasions, add creative touches:
- Dust with edible gold flakes during winter festivities
- Add fresh cranberries around the platter for Thanksgiving
- Sprinkle sea salt flakes for contrasting flavor
Pairing with Beverages
Dark roast coffee pairs perfectly with the bars’ sweetness. The coffee’s bitterness balances the chocolate, creating a delightful taste. For evening gatherings, try pairing with:
- Espresso martinis (adults only!)
- Spiced apple cider
- Port wine or bourbon
Non-coffee lovers will enjoy them with cold milk or chai latte. The creamy textures go well with the crunchy pecans.
Storage and Shelf Life
Learn how to keep your homemade pecan bars perfect for a long time. Storing them right keeps them fresh and gooey. These tips help your dessert stay delicious, no matter when you want to enjoy it.
How to Store Leftovers
Store your pecan bars in an airtight container to keep them fresh. Use parchment paper between slices to avoid sticking. They stay good at room temperature for up to 4 days. Refrigerate them for up to 1 week for longer storage.
If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is best. It keeps the filling caramel-like and the crust crisp. Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before eating to regain their softness.
Freezing Your Dessert
Freeze your pecan bars for up to 3 months without losing quality. Wrap each one in plastic wrap and then in a freezer-safe bag. For a whole batch, use a container with a tight lid to avoid freezer burn.
Thaw frozen bars in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 30 minutes. Don’t microwave them. Slow thawing prevents the chocolate from seizing and the crust from getting soggy. Briefly reheat in a 250°F oven for a warm, fresh taste.
Nutritional Information
Curious about the calories in these bars? Let’s break down the numbers while exploring simple swaps to tailor this treat to your dietary preferences. Whether you’re tracking macros or seeking lighter options, we’ve got you covered.
Caloric Breakdown
Each chocolate pecan pie bar averages 300–350 calories, depending on portion size. A standard serving contains roughly:
- 18g fat (mostly from pecans and butter)
- 38g carbohydrates
- 4g protein
For comparison, some recipes clock in as low as 272 calories per bar when using precise measurements. The rich texture comes from quality ingredients like dark chocolate and pure vanilla extract, which add nutritional value beyond empty calories.
Healthier Alternatives
Want to lighten things up? Try these easy modifications without sacrificing flavor:
- Swap corn syrup for honey – adds natural sweetness and antioxidants
- Use 70% dark chocolate – doubles the fiber content
- Reduce sugar by 25% – most recipes stay deliciously gooey
These tweaks create a dessert that’s lower in refined sugars while maintaining that signature crunch. For gluten-free needs, almond flour works beautifully in the crust – just add an extra egg to bind the mixture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these answers will help you perfect your chocolate pecan pie bars. We’ve gathered the most common queries to save you time and frustration.
Can I Make These Bars Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Swap regular all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for identical texture and flavor. Brands like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur work seamlessly in this recipe. For extra crunch, add 1 tsp xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it.
Nut allergy? Try these alternatives:
- Sunflower seeds (roasted)
- Crushed gluten-free pretzels
- Toasted coconut flakes
| Ingredient | Regular Version | Gluten-Free Version |
|---|---|---|
| Flour | All-purpose | 1:1 GF blend |
| Binding Agent | N/A | Xanthan gum (optional) |
| Texture | Classic crumb | Slightly denser |
How Do I Ensure a Gooey Texture?
The secret lies in timing and temperature. Remove bars when the edges are golden but the center jiggles slightly. They’ll firm up as they cool. Use these pro tips:
- Bake at 325°F instead of 350°F for slower setting
- Check with a digital thermometer (target 200°F internal temp)
- Cool completely before slicing (2+ hours)
Overbaking is the #1 cause of dry bars. If your oven runs hot, reduce baking time by 5-7 minutes. The filling should resemble thick caramel when warm.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
These chocolate pecan pie bars are a hit with home bakers, perfect for holidays. They’re loved at Thanksgiving and Christmas for their rich taste and easy making.
What Our Bakers Are Saying
Home cooks across the country love these bars. They’re a crowd-pleaser. One parent said:
“My teenager who hates traditional pecan pie ate three squares!”
Another baker shared:
“I brought these to my office potluck, and the self-proclaimed ‘pecan pie haters’ asked for seconds.”
Popular Modifications by Readers
Creative bakers have made their own versions of this holiday baking recipe. Here are the top changes:
- Swapping ¼ cup of chocolate chips for peanut butter chips
- Using walnuts instead of pecans for a more affordable option
- Adding 1 tsp orange zest to the filling for citrusy brightness
The salted caramel drizzle is a big hit. Readers suggest: “Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel for that perfect sweet-salty balance.” These changes show the recipe is versatile and delicious.
Conclusion: Indulge in Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
These chocolate pecan pie bars are a dream come true for sweet lovers. They offer rich flavor, a satisfying texture, and are easy to make. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or just want to treat yourself.
People love these bars so much that they disappear quickly. They’re a favorite at gatherings and parties. This recipe is a hit because it’s simple yet indulgent.
Bring the Kitchen Magic to Life
Get ready to make these chocolate pecan pie bars your new favorite dessert. They’re quick to prepare and always impress. You can even add your own twist with spices or caramel sauce.
Join the Baking Conversation
Take a photo of your chocolate pecan pie bars and share it online. Tag our blog so we can see your creations. Bakers love to share their ideas and tips, from gluten-free crusts to dark chocolate.
Your feedback helps others enjoy these treats as much as you do. They’re a hit at potlucks and family dinners. So, go ahead and share your baking adventures!
