Nothing says comfort like the warm, nutty sweetness of pecan pie—but sometimes you just want the flavors without all the fuss. These Really Easy Ooey Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect solution. With a buttery crust, a gooey pecan filling, and a melt-in-your-mouth bite, this recipe brings all the cozy vibes of the holidays (or anytime baking) in a simple, beginner-friendly way.
Whether you’re making them for Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just a weekend treat, these pecan pie squares are always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get baking.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 12 bars |
| Calories | ~280 per bar |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, mix melted butter, flour, granulated sugar, and salt until crumbly. Press evenly into the bottom of your pan. Bake for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
- Prepare the filling: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in chopped pecans.
- Assemble the bars: Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust. Spread evenly with a spatula.
- Bake again: Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the center is set and the top looks glossy.
- Cool completely: Let the bars cool in the pan before slicing into squares. (This helps them firm up and slice neatly.)
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Cutting tip: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean slices.
- Storage: Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
- Freezer-friendly: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Sugar Cookie Crust: Use a sugar cookie dough base instead of the buttery crust for a sweeter, softer bite.
- Crescent Roll Base: Swap the homemade crust for crescent roll dough for an even quicker version.
- Nut Mix-In: Add a mix of walnuts and pecans for extra texture and flavor variety.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
Conclusion
These Really Easy Ooey Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are everything you love about pecan pie—without the hassle of rolling out pie dough. They’re sweet, nutty, buttery, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Bake a batch, pour yourself a warm drink, and enjoy a little homemade comfort.