Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are a gourmet twist on traditional pecan pie, capturing the classic flavors you love in a portable, shareable form.
The introduction of Brown Butter to the mix elevates these bars by adding a rich, nutty depth that perfectly complements the sweetness of toasted pecans and gooey filling.
Historically, pecan pie has been a staple in Southern American baking since the late 19th century, cherished for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Translating this beloved treat into bar form not only brings a modern convenience but also makes slicing, serving, and sharing easier for any occasion.
Brown butter, with its irresistible aroma and caramelized flavor, updates the classic pecan pie bar recipe-making Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars both nostalgic and delightfully new. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering, preparing goodies for a bake sale, or simply craving a decadent dessert, these bars embody comfort and quality.
Layered with a tender shortbread crust, luscious brown butter filling, and roasted pecans, they deliver all the buttery, sweet, and nutty notes you expect from the best pecan pie.
Impress your family and friends with Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars, and discover just how easy and delicious homemade desserts can be.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, divided
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup light corn syrup
- ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup butter. Continue cooking, swirling often, until the butter foams and turns golden with a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, light brown sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and granulated sugar. Pour in half of the browned butter (reserve the other half for the filling) and stir until crumbly.
- Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until just set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven but keep the oven on.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, light corn syrup, dark brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt until smooth. Gradually whisk in the reserved browned butter.
- Stir the toasted chopped pecans into the filling mixture until well combined.
- Pour the brown butter pecan filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is just set and slightly puffed. The bars will continue to set as they cool.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan, then use the parchment overhang to lift them out. Cut into squares and serve.
Nutritional Information
Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are a rich dessert, offering a satisfying blend of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein primarily from the pecans and eggs.
A typical serving (one bar, assuming 24 per 9x13-inch pan) contains approximately 250-300 calories, with around 18 grams of total fat, 4 grams of protein, and 25 grams of carbohydrates. Pecans provide a boost of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and essential nutrients like magnesium, vitamin E, and zinc.
While these bars do contain sugars from brown sugar, granulated sugar, and corn syrup, their combination with protein and fiber from pecans helps mitigate quick blood sugar spikes. If you are monitoring your intake of saturated fat or sugar, enjoy smaller portions or serve alongside fresh fruit to add balance.
The brown butter adds depth of flavor without additional sugar, so you'll find less need for extra sweeteners. These bars are free from artificial additives and preservatives, a bonus for those seeking more wholesome dessert options. Keep in mind that as with any decadent treat, moderation is key.
For those with dietary concerns, modifications can be made to reduce sugar or substitute some of the butter with plant-based alternatives, allowing you to tailor this dessert to your nutritional goals.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
The rich, nutty flavors of Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars pair perfectly with beverages that complement their depth and sweetness. Coffee is a classic go-to, especially dark roast or espresso, whose bitterness offsets the bars' caramel notes.
Black tea or chai also work well, offering aromatic spices that play off the pecan and brown butter. For an adult twist, consider a tawny port or nutty sherry, whose complexity and gentle acidity balance the sweetness of the bars.
Bourbon, with its vanilla and toffee undertones, makes an excellent whiskey pairing. If you prefer something non-alcoholic, try spiced apple cider chill or warm, as its fruitiness and spice enhance the autumnal appeal of the dessert.
No matter your preference, matching the right beverage will elevate the enjoyment of these indulgent bars.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To achieve the best flavor in your Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars, it's essential to pay attention to a few key details. When browning the butter, watch it closely-the transformation from golden to burnt happens quickly.
Swirl the pan frequently and remove it from heat as soon as the butter develops a deep golden hue and a fragrant aroma. Toasting the pecans before mixing them into the filling boosts their nuttiness and adds crunch.
For a more intense caramel note, use dark brown sugar in the filling, though light brown sugar works beautifully as well. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar quantities slightly without sacrificing texture. For a gluten-free version, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the traditional flour.
Add a dash of bourbon or maple extract to the filling for an extra layer of complexity and warmth. If you like a thicker bar, increase your pan size to an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch square.
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 2 months-just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
For presentation, dust lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are wonderfully versatile, making them an ideal treat for gatherings, holidays, or simple weeknight desserts. For a casual touch, cut the bars into small squares or rectangles and arrange them on a platter lined with parchment for easy access at potlucks or buffets.
For a more refined presentation, serve each bar on a small dessert plate with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, which will melt enticingly over the warm, rich layers.
If you're feeling creative, drizzle the bars with dark chocolate or caramel sauce for an added indulgence. Garnish with a few whole toasted pecans or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to enhance the visual appeal and deepen the flavor.
When wrapping bars for gifts or bake sales, use decorative papers or ribbons; Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars hold up well and taste even better a day after baking, making them perfect for make-ahead treats.
For bite-sized portions, bake the bars in mini muffin pans with paper liners-ideal for parties or lunchbox snacks. No matter how you serve them, these bars promise to be a standout addition to any dessert spread, satisfying cravings for both nutty complexity and buttery sweetness.
Health Benefits
While Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are an indulgent treat, they also offer some notable health benefits thanks to their wholesome core ingredients. Pecans, the star of the recipe, are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, known to support cardiovascular health by helping lower bad cholesterol levels.
They're a good source of antioxidants, including vitamin E and zinc, which support immune function and cellular repair. The eggs supply high-quality protein and other essential micronutrients such as vitamin B12 and choline, contributing to energy metabolism and nervous system health.
Brown butter, though calorie-dense, contains the same nutrients as regular butter but with intensified flavor, allowing you to use less without sacrificing taste. By using natural sugars and forgoing artificial additives, you maintain a dessert that steers clear of excessive processing.
When consumed in moderation, and paired with a balanced diet, these bars can satisfy your sweet tooth while providing beneficial nutrients. You can make the recipe slightly healthier by reducing the sugar content or substituting half the flour with whole wheat pastry flour for more fiber.
As always, those with nut allergies or dietary restrictions should modify or avoid certain ingredients as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, these bars are excellent for making ahead. Simply prepare and bake them as directed, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. Their flavors actually develop and deepen as they rest.
Absolutely. Once the bars are cooled and cut, individually wrap them or layer between sheets of parchment in an airtight container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture.
Yes. For a corn syrup substitute, use an equal amount of pure maple syrup or honey. The texture may be slightly softer and the flavor subtly different, but the bars will still be delicious.
Not as written, but you can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the regular flour in the crust. Check that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free, especially any baking products used.
Store cut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the bars as described above.
Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful reinvention of a comforting classic, marrying the nostalgic flavors of homemade pecan pie with the rich, caramelized goodness of brown butter. Their luscious filling, crunchy pecans, and melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust make every bite a treat for the senses. Perfect for holidays, celebrations, or any time you crave a standout dessert, these bars are easy to transport, share, and customize to your taste. Whether you enjoy them with coffee, tea, or something stronger, Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars promise to become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire. Embrace this crowd-pleasing dessert and let each square transport you to moments of warmth, tradition, and pure indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
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2Melt 1 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring often, until the butter becomes golden brown and smells nutty, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
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3For the crust, combine 2 cups flour, ½ cup granulated sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and half of the brown butter in a bowl. Mix until crumbly, then press evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden.
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4While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, remaining brown butter, vanilla extract, and chopped pecans in a large bowl.
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5Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust. Return to oven and bake for 25-28 minutes, until the center is set and top is golden.
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6Allow bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting out and slicing into bars. Serve and enjoy.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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