Description
Joanna Gaines’ Pecan Bars are deliciously sweet and nutty bars with a buttery crust and a rich, gooey pecan topping. These bars combine a tender shortbread base with a luscious pecan filling, perfect for a comforting dessert or a delightful snack to share.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- Cooking spray or melted butter, for greasing
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Filling
- 3/4 cup dark or light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 1/2 cups pecan pieces
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan thoroughly with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a stand mixer, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and kosher salt until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Gradually add the cup of all-purpose flour and mix until the mixture turns crumbly.
- Bake the Crust: Press the crumbly dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, forming a smooth layer. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 22 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown.
- Prepare the Filling: While the crust is baking, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, the additional 2 tablespoons of flour, vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt in a bowl until the filling is smooth and well combined. Gently fold in the pecan pieces ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Add the Filling and Bake: Once the crust is done baking, carefully pour the pecan filling over the hot crust, spreading it evenly. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the pecan bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, slice into squares and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature to get a smooth and fluffy crust mixture.
- Use either light or dark corn syrup and brown sugar to slightly alter the flavor; dark options offer a richer taste.
- Press the crust evenly for uniform baking and an even layer.
- Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices and prevent crumbling.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 52 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Joanna Gaines, pecan bars, pecan dessert, homemade bars, pecan recipe, baking pecan bars, sweet bars, buttery crust
