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
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No fuss, no stress: Uses premade pie crusts to save time
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Perfect for beginners or last-minute bakers
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Rich, buttery pecan filling with a golden, flaky base
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A holiday favorite made easier than ever
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Slices cleanly into beautiful, portable dessert bars
Ingredients Breakdown:
For the Crust:
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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:
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1 cup light corn syrup – Provides the classic gooey sweetness and shine in pecan pie.
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1 cup packed brown sugar – Adds rich, molasses flavor and depth.
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Enhances the filling’s richness and texture.
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3 large eggs – Bind the filling and create that custard-like consistency.
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the flavor with a warm, aromatic note.
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1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
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1 1/2 cups pecan halves – The star ingredient, offering crunch and toasty, nutty flavor in every bite
Tips and Tricks
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Cool fully before slicing – This is key to avoid messy, runny bars.
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Lightly flour your rolling surface when working with the pie crusts to prevent sticking.
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Chop some pecans if you want a more even texture throughout the bars.
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Want a slightly less sweet version? Use dark corn syrup for deeper flavor and reduce the brown sugar slightly.
Variations and Customizations
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Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the filling.
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Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars: Stir 1–2 tablespoons of bourbon into the filling for a rich Southern twist.
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Maple Glaze Finish: Drizzle with maple glaze after baking for added decadence.
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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:
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A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai latte
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Vanilla bean ice cream for an indulgent treat
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Pumpkin or apple desserts at your next holiday gathering
Storage Instructions
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Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for 5–7 days—just bring to room temp before serving.
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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