Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Salted maple pecan pie bars combine the rich flavors of maple syrup and toasted pecans into a delightful treat. These bars are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to holiday celebrations. Their sweet and salty taste is sure to please everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
You will enjoy these salted maple pecan pie bars for many reasons. First, they have a deliciously sweet filling that is perfectly balanced with a hint of salt. Additionally, the crunchy pecans add texture and depth to every bite. Finally, the easy-to-follow recipe means you can whip up these tasty treats quickly, making them perfect for busy bakers.
How to Make Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and salt for the crust. Mix well.
- Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it down tightly.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and salt, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the mixture.
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it into an even layer.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffy around the edges.
- Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack. Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours for easier slicing.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars and sprinkle with flaky sea salt on top before serving.
How to Serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
When serving salted maple pecan pie bars, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. These options complement the rich flavors of the bars beautifully. You can also drizzle some extra maple syrup on top for an added touch of sweetness.
How to Store Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
To store your salted maple pecan pie bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store them for a longer time, they will freeze well. Just wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars Perfect
- Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh pecans. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet for an even richer taste.
- Don’t Skip Chilling: Allowing the bars to chill for at least two hours makes slicing easier and improves their texture.
- Watch Baking Time: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your bars during the last few minutes of baking to avoid overcooking.
Flavor Variations
Consider trying these flavor variations for your salted maple pecan pie bars:
- Chocolate Chips: Add a half cup of dark or milk chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
- Coconut: Stir in a cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
- Spices: Incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to add warmth.
Pro Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Measurement Accuracy: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour. This will help achieve the perfect crust texture.
- Be Patient with Cooling: Allow sufficient cooling time before slicing. This ensures the bars hold their shape.
FAQs About Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
1. Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Just chop them coarsely, and they will add a different flavor.
2. Is it possible to make these bars vegan?
You can make vegan salted maple pecan pie bars by replacing the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg) and using a vegan butter substitute.
3. How can I make the crust gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free crust, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that can replace wheat flour at a 1:1 ratio.
Final Thoughts
Salted maple pecan pie bars are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Their sweet and salty flavor, combined with the crunch of the pecans, makes them an irresistible dessert choice. Plus, they are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Try this simple recipe today to enjoy a slice of pure deliciousness!
Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the filling
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal later.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and salt for the crust. Mix well.
- Add the softened butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Use the back of a measuring cup to pack it down tightly.
Baking the crust
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Filling Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and salt, ensuring they are evenly distributed in the mixture.
Final Baking
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it into an even layer.
- Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffy around the edges.
- Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool in the pan on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, refrigerate for at least 2 hours for easier slicing.
- Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars and sprinkle with flaky sea salt on top before serving.
