Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Want a delicious Southern dessert without spending hours cooking? Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are your perfect choice. They bring the rich taste of pecan pie to your table with less effort, making them ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat. With their buttery crust and sweet, nutty filling, these bars are sure to impress everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the classic pecan pie into easy-to-follow bar form, so you can enjoy baking without stress.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown sugar and pecans creates a rich and satisfying flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just a cozy night in, these bars fit any occasion.
• Minimal Clean-Up: Since these are baked in one dish, there’s less mess to clean up afterward—ideal for busy bakers!
• Make Ahead Option: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored, making them a convenient option for entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars, you’ll need some essential tools that will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to slice your bars.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to prepare different components efficiently without cross-contamination.
• Whisk: Perfect for combining ingredients smoothly, ensuring your filling is lump-free.

Ingredients

Want a delicious Southern dessert without spending hours cooking? Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are your perfect choice. They bring the rich taste of pecan pie to your table with less effort.

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Pecan Filling:

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ¼ cup corn syrup (light or dark)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups pecan halves (or chopped pecans)

How to Make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal later.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt.
2. Mix until the dough forms a crumbly texture.
3. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 4: Make the Filling

1. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs until well beaten.
2. Add in brown sugar, melted butter, corn syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
3. Fold in the pecans gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.

Step 5: Combine and Bake Again

Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust. Spread it evenly with a rubber spatula. Return to oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes or until set.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares. Enjoy your delightful Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars!

How to Serve Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet evening, these bars can adapt to any occasion.

Pair with Whipped Topping

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the rich pecan filling perfectly.

Serve with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top of warm bars creates a delicious contrast in temperature and flavor.

Accompany with Fresh Fruit

• Slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears offer a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the bars.

Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce can elevate your dessert experience, adding an extra layer of indulgence.

Enjoy with Coffee or Tea

• Pairing these bars with a cup of coffee or tea enhances the flavors and makes for a delightful afternoon treat.

How to Perfect Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

To ensure your Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars come out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the butter and eggs blend smoothly for a better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Gently combine ingredients to avoid incorporating too much air, which can affect the texture.
• Chill Before Cutting: Letting the bars cool completely before slicing allows for cleaner cuts and neater presentation.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try mixing in different nuts like walnuts for added texture and flavor variations.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

When serving Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars, consider these delightful side dishes that pair well with their sweet richness.

1. Crispy Green Salad: A mix of greens dressed lightly balances the sweetness of the bars and adds freshness.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness complements pecans beautifully, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
3. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and earthiness to your dessert spread.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses offers a savory contrast that enhances your dessert experience.
5. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the bars.
6. Nut Mix: A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and sophistication alongside your sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to ensure your bars turn out just right.

• Skipping the parchment paper: Not using parchment can lead to sticking. Always line your baking dish for easy removal.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the crust tough. Combine ingredients just until they are blended.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter can affect the crust texture. Ensure all dairy ingredients are at room temperature.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin the balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Rushing the cooling process: Cutting the bars while still warm can lead to messy slices. Allow them to cool completely before cutting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars will last up to one week.

Freezing Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

• Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Reheating Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Warm individual bars on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars that may help you make the best dessert possible.

Can I make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these bars a day or two in advance. Just store them properly in the refrigerator.

What is the best way to cut Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars?

For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and cut when they have cooled completely. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat slices.

Can I customize Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra flavor. Just be cautious not to alter the main filling too much.

How should I serve Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars?

These bars are delicious served plain or with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream on top.

Final Thoughts

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are an easy and delightful dessert that captures the essence of traditional pecan pie with minimal effort. With options for customization, you can create your unique version. Enjoy making this treat for gatherings or a cozy night in!