These super easy fudgy pecan pie bars are the perfect substitute for classic pecan pies with a finicky pie crust. Pecan pies are always a safe bet for holiday entertaining, because everyone adores pecan pies! My butter pecan cake is always a favorite on the Thanksgiving table, and so are these spiced yeasted waffles with pecans as a brunch option during the holidays. But a decadent pecan dessert with a delicious, gooey filling, a crunchy topping, and a buttery, flaky crust… what’s not to love about that?
Pecan pie bars
That was why I taught myself how to make a classic pecan pie. But first I started with these deliciously Fudgy Pecan Pie Bars, perfect for holiday entertaining and a great alternative to classic pumpkin pie or crustless pumpkin pie for Thanksgiving too (or you can make them both, of course!). Another reason why I love these fudgy pecan pie bars is that these are so easy to make, easier than a classic pecan pie, because you need not worry about finicky pie crusts. But they are just as decadent and addictive with a buttery shortbread crust, and a fudgy butterscotch and pecan filling. I’m drooling just writing this… Plus, the serving size is smaller with these fudgy pecan pie bars, so it’s easier for portion controlling too. But admittedly, it’ll require considerable will power, because these babies are just so addictive. The shortbread layer and the pecan filling are so easy to make, and these really are a great Thanksgiving recipe. If you’re serving a large crowd, you can easily adapt this recipe for a 9 x 13 inch pan as well.
How to make pecan pie bars
Shortbread crust
I love shortbread cookies so I opted for a more buttery shortbread crust for these fudgy pecan pie bars. This crust is very easy. I added less flour, which makes the crust softer than a typical pie crust. Since the base is soft, you will need to press the dough into the baking pan and make sure it’s nice and even. Then refrigerate to let the crust set and become firm. The crust will hold its shape better while being baked, if it has been chilled first.
Fudgy pecan pie bar filling
Even the fudgy pecan pie filling comes together quickly. I like to use chopped pecan nuts for the filling, for two simple reasons. Another great way to add even more flavor to these fudgy pecan pie bars (or even a classic pecan pie) is to roast the pecan nuts in the oven first for a few minutes. Or you can roast them in a pan on the stove top as well if that’s easier. The filling in these pecan pie bars is exactly like what you’d expect in a classic pecan pie. You get the delicious butterscotch flavors from brown sugar, butter and vanilla, as well as the nutty flavor of toasted pecans. As these fudgy pecan pie bars bake, the pecan nuts move to the top creating a nutty, crunchy, chunky pecan layer, while the butterscotch, butter and eggs create a decadent and fudgy caramel layer between the pecans and the flaky shortbread crust. So do you need another excuse to make these irresistibly fudgy pecan pie bars? 🙂 These were my stepping stone to making classic pecan pies, so if you’re worried about making a classic pecan pie, then these fudgy pecan pie bars are the PERFECT solution! Your friends and family are guaranteed to go pecans for these bars! If you liked this fudgy pecan pie bars recipe, don’t forget to subscribe for new (and free) recipes by entering your email address on the side bar (and get all these recipes delivered straight to your inbox), so you don’t miss out on a thing. You can find me on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, PINTEREST, YOU TUBE and GOOGLE-PLUS too.
Tools I use for this recipe
Whisks – A good set of whisks is a must for all of your baking needs. 8 x 8 inch baking pan – I use this pan to make these fudgy chocolate brownies and blondies recipe as well. I have 3 of these in my kitchen and love them. Here’s a cheaper (but great) option as well. Spatulas – I love this set, and I have it in two sizes. They are perfect for different baking/cooking needs. Quarter sheet pan – Another essential tool for a baker. I used this to toast the pecans in this recipe.
More Thanksgiving recipes you’ll love
Sous vide turkey roll Slow roasted turkey roll Slow roasted turkey breast Slow cooked turkey breast Maple roasted brussels sprouts Easy cranberry sauce Pear and sausage stuffing Crustless pumpkin pie
