Pecan pie bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the buttery, nutty flavors of a classic pecan pie but craves a simpler preparation process. Enter Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars—a dessert that’s so easy to make, it feels like cheating! With a shortcut crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling, these bars combine minimal effort with maximum flavor, making them perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just when your sweet tooth strikes.
Let’s dive into the recipe and see how these bars come together in just a few simple steps.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these irresistible pecan pie bars, with an explanation of each ingredient's role:
- 1 box yellow cake mix: The ultimate shortcut for the crust. It provides a soft, slightly sweet base with minimal effort.
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the cake mix into a dough for the crust.
- 3 large eggs: Two are used in the filling for structure, and one is incorporated into the crust to hold it together.
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans: The star of the show, pecans add crunch and nutty flavor to every bite.
- 1 cup light corn syrup: Essential for that gooey, caramel-like filling that defines pecan pie.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness that pairs perfectly with the nuts.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, giving the bars a warm, aromatic touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure the bars release easily once cooled.
2. Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, melted butter, and 1 egg. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Pro Tip: Use your hands to press the dough evenly into the pan for a uniform crust.
3. Pre-Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This step sets the base and prevents it from becoming soggy when you add the filling.
4. Prepare the Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together the remaining 2 eggs, light corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans to evenly distribute them throughout the filling.
5. Assemble the Bars
Once the crust is partially baked, pour the pecan mixture over it and spread evenly with a spatula.
- Pro Tip: Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any air bubbles in the filling.
6. Final Bake
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. The bars should jiggle slightly but firm up as they cool.
7. Cool and Slice
Let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
- Pro Tip: For cleaner cuts, chill the bars in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Why These Bars Are a Hit
- Effortless Preparation: The cake mix crust eliminates the need for rolling or mixing from scratch.
- Perfectly Gooey Filling: Thanks to the corn syrup and eggs, the texture is spot-on.
- Versatility: These bars are great as a dessert or a midday snack.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair with a cup of coffee or chai tea to complement the rich, nutty flavors.
Final Thoughts
With just 7 simple ingredients and less than an hour of total time, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are proof that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create a show-stopping dessert. The combination of a buttery crust and gooey pecan filling is utterly irresistible, and their easy prep makes them a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just craving a sweet indulgence, these bars deliver every time. Try them today and see why they’re a favorite for busy bakers everywhere!