As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, it’s time to revel in the quintessential flavors of fall. Enter our Maple Pecan Pie Bars – a delectable rendition of the classic pecan pie in convenient, bite-sized portions. These bars encapsulate the essence of autumn, with the richness of pecans and the warmth of maple syrup layered over a buttery crust. Join us on a journey of indulgence as we explore the creation of these delightful Maple Pecan Pie Bars, perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring a moment of sweet solitude.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 and 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 3: Toast the Pecans
- While the crust is baking, spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes. Set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Pecan Filling
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
- Once the crust is ready, evenly distribute the toasted pecans over it.
- Pour the pecan filling over the crust and pecans.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted comes out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the bars with a drizzle of melted chocolate over the pecan filling.
- Whipped Cream Bliss: Serve each bar with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a delightful contrast.
- Bourbon Infusion: Add a splash of bourbon to the pecan filling for a sophisticated flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making the crust from scratch?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust for convenience. Ensure it’s rolled out to fit the dimensions of the pan.
Q: Can I make these bars in advance?
A: Certainly! These bars can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. They often taste even better the next day.
Q: How do I store Maple Pecan Pie Bars?
A: Store the bars at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use a different type of nuts?
A: While pecans are traditional, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or a mix for a unique twist.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Option:
For the crust, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a keto-friendly flour alternative. Use a keto-friendly sweetener for the crust and the pecan filling. Adjust the quantity based on your desired sweetness level.
Low-Carb Version:
Opt for a low-carb baking mix for the crust and a low-carb sweetener for both the crust and the pecan filling. Ensure the maple syrup used is sugar-free or has a low sugar content.
In conclusion, our Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a celebration of autumn’s bounty, bringing together the warmth of maple and the nutty goodness of pecans in a convenient, handheld form. Whether shared at a fall gathering or enjoyed as a solo treat, these bars capture the essence of the season. So, embrace the flavors of fall, bake up a batch of these delightful bars, and savor the symphony of autumnal delight in every bite. Maple Pecan Pie Bars – a slice of seasonal joy that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy!
