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Irresistible Maple Pecan Pie Bars

maple pecan pie bars - featured image

These maple pecan pie bars feature a buttery shortbread crust paired with a rich maple-pecan filling, creating a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dessert perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240ml) pure maple syrup (Grade A or B)
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups (240g) pecan halves, roughly chopped and toasted
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, ¼ cup sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Add cold, cubed butter and blend with a pastry cutter or fingertips until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits remaining (3–5 minutes).
  2. Press crust mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch pan, about ¼ to ½ inch thick. Bake for 15 minutes or until edges are light golden. Remove and cool slightly.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk 3 large eggs until frothy (about 1 minute). Add 1 cup maple syrup, ¼ cup melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix well and stir in a pinch of salt.
  4. Fold in chopped toasted pecans, reserving a few for topping if desired.
  5. Pour filling over warm crust and spread evenly. Sprinkle reserved pecans on top.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until filling is set but slightly jiggly in the center.
  7. Cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2 hours or refrigerate to speed cooling.
  8. Cut into 16 squares using a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts.

Notes

Cold butter is key for flaky shortbread crust. Toast pecans for enhanced flavor. Watch baking time to avoid drying out the filling. Chill bars before cutting for cleaner slices. For a glossy finish, brush top with warmed maple syrup after baking. Gluten-free and vegan adaptations available.

Nutrition

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