Pecan pie is the epitome of Southern comfort desserts. That golden, gooey center topped with a caramelized pecan layer and nestled in a buttery crust is a classic that has graced countless holiday tables. But sometimes, you want all that pecan pie goodness without the hassle of rolling out pie dough or babysitting a pie in the oven. Enter the Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars, the ultimate shortcut dessert that combines the irresistible flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a bar cookie.
If you’ve ever dreamed of pecan pie in an easier-to-make form, these Pecan Pie Squares Easy recipe will have you singing its praises. Inspired by favorites like the Pecan Pie Bars Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond raves about and beloved recipes from Taste of Home Pecan Pie Bars, this variation is everything you love about pecan pie, but even better. They’re portable, shareable, and, best of all, require no crust rolling or pie dish.
Why You’ll Love These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
- No Pie Crust, No Problem: If you’ve ever been frustrated by a pie crust that just wouldn’t cooperate, this recipe is for you. These bars have a simple, buttery shortbread-style base that comes together in minutes. You get all the buttery flavor of a traditional crust without any of the stress. It’s like a Pecan Pie No Crust, but in perfectly portioned squares.
- Foolproof Filling: These bars are practically impossible to mess up. The filling is rich, gooey, and sweet, made with pantry staples like brown sugar, eggs, and butter. The flavor is enhanced with maple syrup for a subtle twist, making these the perfect Maple Pecan Bars Recipe you’ve been searching for.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or just need a quick dessert to bring to a potluck, these Pecan Pie Slab Bars are a crowd-pleaser. Cut them into squares, and they’re ready to feed a crowd—no messy pie slicing required.
Ingredients for Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup (or substitute with maple syrup for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- Optional: A pinch of cinnamon for warmth
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the flour and a pinch of salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, ensuring it covers the bottom completely. Bake the crust for 15–20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the crust bakes, prepare the pecan filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup (or maple syrup), brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the chopped pecans.
Step 3: Assemble the Bars
Pour the filling evenly over the pre-baked crust. Use a spatula to spread it out and ensure the pecans are evenly distributed. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown.
Step 4: Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish. This is the hardest part, but it’s essential for clean, neat slices. Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh, quality pecans make all the difference in flavor. Toasting them lightly before mixing into the filling enhances their nutty richness.
- Maple Syrup Variation: For a more complex flavor, substitute half or all of the corn syrup with pure maple syrup. The subtle sweetness and depth make these Maple Pecan Bars Recipe unforgettable.
- Make Them Ahead: These bars actually taste better the next day, after the flavors have had time to meld. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Variations on Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
- Date Pecan Pie Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chopped Medjool dates to the filling for a natural sweetness and chewy texture. Dates pair beautifully with the pecans for a unique twist.
- Southern Pecan Log-Inspired Bars: Incorporate a layer of marshmallow fluff into the filling or drizzle white chocolate over the bars after they’ve cooled for a nod to the iconic Southern candy.
- Chocolate Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips to the filling for a richer, decadent take on the classic recipe.
Why These Bars Stand Out
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are inspired by tried-and-true recipes but simplified for modern home cooks. They take the best parts of the Pecan Pie Bars Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond makes and combine them with the practicality of Taste of Home Pecan Pie Bars. The result is a dessert that’s rich, buttery, and downright addictive.
The shortbread crust is sturdy yet tender, providing the perfect base for the gooey, sweet filling. The pecans on top toast beautifully during baking, creating a caramelized nutty layer that’s pure heaven.
And the best part? These bars can be made in under an hour, with minimal cleanup—because who has time for fussy desserts during the holidays?
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat. Pair them with a steaming cup of coffee or a holiday punch for a dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a foolproof dessert that brings the comfort and nostalgia of pecan pie without the hassle, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are your new go-to. With endless variations—from Date Pecan Pie Bars to chocolate-infused options—you can tailor them to suit any occasion or craving.
Whether you’re making these for Thanksgiving, a holiday gathering, or just because, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Easy, delicious, and impossible to resist, these Pecan Pie Squares Easy will have everyone begging for the recipe.
