Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

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If you’re craving that rich, nutty, caramelized flavor of traditional pecan pie but don’t have the time (or energy) for scratch-made crusts and fussy prep, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate dessert hack. Made with store-bought pie crusts and a gooey brown sugar pecan filling, they’re ridiculously easy, totally indulgent, and ideal for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weeknight treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No fuss, no stress: Uses premade pie crusts to save time

• Perfect for beginners or last-minute bakers

• Rich, buttery pecan filling with a golden, flaky base

• A holiday favorite made easier than ever

• Slices cleanly into beautiful, portable dessert bars

Ingredients Breakdown:

For the Crust:

• One packet of two chilled pie crusts (16 oz) – A time-saving shortcut that forms the flaky base for the bars without making crust from scratch.

For the Filling:

• 1 cup light corn syrup – Provides the classic gooey sweetness and shine in pecan pie.

• 1 cup packed brown sugar – Adds rich, molasses flavor and depth.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Enhances the filling’s richness and texture.

• 3 large eggs – Bind the filling and create that custard-like consistency.

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.

• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

• 1 1/2 cups pecan halves – The star ingredient, offering crunch and toasty, nutty flavor in every bite

Tips and Tricks

• Cool fully before slicing – This is key to avoid messy, runny bars.

• Lightly flour your rolling surface when working with the pie crusts to prevent sticking.

• Chop some pecans if you want a more even texture throughout the bars.

• Want a slightly less sweet version? Use dark corn syrup for deeper flavor and reduce the brown sugar slightly.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the filling.

• Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars: Stir 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon into the filling for a rich Southern twist.

• Maple Glaze Finish: Drizzle with maple glaze after baking for added decadence.

• Nut-free version: Use chopped pretzels or oats as a crunchy topper if you’re avoiding nuts.

Pairing Suggestions

These pecan bars pair beautifully with:

• A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai latte

• Vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat

• Pumpkin or apple desserts at your next holiday gathering

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 5–7 days—just bring to room temp before serving.

• Freezer: Freeze in layers separated by parchment for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Popular Questions

Can I use a homemade pie crust?

Yes! If you have time, a homemade crust adds a nice touch—but the beauty of this recipe is that you don’t have to.

Do I need to par-bake the crust?

Nope. The crust bakes perfectly with the filling on top—just be sure your oven is fully preheated.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Absolutely! These bars taste even better the next day, making them ideal for prep-ahead entertaining

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 20 bars 1x

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Description

All the caramelized, nutty goodness of pecan pie—with none of the hassle! A buttery store-bought crust topped with a sticky brown sugar-pecan filling, baked into easy, sliceable bars. Perfect for Thanksgiving, gifting, or when you need instant dessert therapy

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (usually contains two crusts)

• 1 cup light corn syrup

• 1 cup packed light brown sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 3 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1½ cups pecan halves

• ¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Lay the Pie Crust

• Unroll both pie crusts and gently press them into the bottom of the prepared pan.

• Overlap and pinch the seams together as needed to cover the entire base evenly.

Step 3: Make the Filling

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.

• Stir in the pecan halves, ensuring they’re coated well.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

• Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the crust.

• Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and golden brown, and the center is just set.

Step 5: Cool and Slice

• Let the bars cool completely in the pan—this helps them firm up for clean slicing.

• Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

• Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, bake sales, or anytime you want an easy dessert win.

• Slice smaller squares for bite-sized servings—great for dessert platters.

• Keep extras chilled and bring to room temperature just before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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