Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of traditional pecan pie in an easy-to-make bar format. The Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars feature a luscious maple pecan filling on a buttery shortbread crust, making them perfect for any gathering. These bars are especially fitting for fall celebrations and Thanksgiving, where they will surely impress your guests with their deliciousness and elegant presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for a complicated pie crust! This recipe simplifies the process while maintaining fantastic flavor.
• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pecans creates a sweet and nutty experience that is truly irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday or a family gathering, these bars are sure to please everyone at your table.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare these bars in advance, allowing for stress-free entertaining when guests arrive.
• Versatile Toppings: Serve them plain or dress them up with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra special treat.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smoother, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Medium mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: This size is ideal for making generous portions of bars, ensuring everyone gets a delicious slice.
• Whisk: A good whisk helps to combine ingredients smoothly, especially when tempering eggs in the pecan filling.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup salted butter, melted (226 grams)
• 2 cups + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled (284 grams)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (110 grams)
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Pecan Pie Filling

• 1/2 cup salted butter (113 grams)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (110 grams)
• 3 tbsp heavy cream, at room temperature (45 grams)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 and 1/4 cups pecan halves
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 1/2 cup cold heavy cream (120 grams)
• 3 tbsp powdered sugar, or more to taste (22 grams)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Flaky sea salt, for topping
• Ice cream, optional for serving

How to Make Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. Prepare your 9×13 inch pan by spraying it with cooking spray and lining it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Melt the salted butter in a medium bowl. Stir in the flour, light brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until you achieve coarse crumbs.
– Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
– Prick the crust all over with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
– Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Pie Filling

In another bowl, beat two large eggs and set aside. In a medium pot, combine melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and heavy cream.
– Heat over medium heat while stirring until combined.
– Bring to a boil and let it boil gently while stirring for about 3 minutes.
– Remove from heat and temper the eggs by slowly drizzling about ⅓ cup of this mixture into the eggs while whisking continuously.
– Pour this egg mixture back into the pot, whisking as you go.
– Stir in pecans, salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon before pouring it over the baked crust.

Step 4: Bake Again

Bake your assembled bars for 28-34 minutes until they have a slight jiggle in the center but are mostly set when tested with a toothpick. Allow cooling completely before slicing.

Step 5: Make Whipped Cream

In a medium to large bowl, beat together cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Avoid overmixing; it’s best made just before serving.

Step 6: Serve & Store

Slice cooled bars into squares or rectangles. Serve topped with whipped cream. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Allow them to come back to room temperature before serving or enjoy them chilled!

How to Serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Freshly Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream adds richness and complements the sweetness of the bars beautifully.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the gooey filling of the bars.

Topped with Caramel Sauce

• Drizzled Caramel: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the maple flavor and adds an extra layer of indulgence.

With Fresh Berries

• Mixed Berries: Serve alongside fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a refreshing and colorful contrast.

As a Snack

• On-the-Go Treat: These bars make for a convenient snack. Cut them into smaller squares for easy packing in lunchboxes or picnics.

How to Perfect Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

To achieve the best results with your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and cream are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother filling.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Gently whisk ingredients together to maintain a light texture in your pie bars.
• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing the bars to cool fully helps them set properly, making cutting easier and neater.
• Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Feel free to add more powdered sugar to your whipped cream if you prefer a sweeter topping.
• Experiment with Nuts: Try using walnuts or pecans mixed together for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Warm spiced apples can complement the flavors of your bars while adding a fruity element.
2. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: These cupcakes provide another layer of autumn flavors that pair well with pecan pie.
3. Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse offers a delightful contrast to the sweet maple pecan flavors.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like Brie or aged cheddar can balance out the sweetness perfectly.
5. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and brighten up your dessert table.
6. Maple Roasted Vegetables: For those looking for savory options, roasted vegetables drizzled with maple syrup create a lovely harmony with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for.

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to a tough crust. Mix until just combined to keep it tender.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Skipping this step can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat your oven for even results.
• Ignoring the Cooling Time: Cutting into your bars too soon can cause them to fall apart. Allow them to cool completely before slicing.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or cream can prevent proper mixing. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Not Measuring Accurately: Improper measurements can change the texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep at room temperature for 20-40 minutes before serving, if desired.

Freezing Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.

Reheating Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm them for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one bar at a time on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The center should have a slight jiggle but not be liquidy, and a toothpick should come out mostly clean.

Can I make these bars vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and cream alternatives to make them vegan-friendly.

What is the best way to serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars?

Serve them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

How long do these bars last in the freezer?

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars can last up to 2 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars combine rich flavors with simple preparation, making them an appealing dessert choice. You can customize these bars by adding chocolate chips or swapping nuts based on your preference. Try this delightful treat at your next gathering!