If you love classic pecan pie but don’t have the time (or patience) to roll out homemade crust, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are your new best friend. With buttery, flaky crust and a rich, caramel-like pecan filling, they deliver all the flavors of a traditional pecan pie—without the hassle. Perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or a sweet weeknight treat, these bars come together with just a few simple ingredients.
Why You’ll Love These Pecan Pie Bars
- No-fuss crust – Using pre-made refrigerated pie crust saves time without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich, gooey filling – A perfect blend of brown sugar, corn syrup, butter, and pecans creates a sweet, nutty, caramelized filling.
- Quick prep – Minimal steps and no rolling required make this a stress-free dessert.
- Easier to serve – Unlike a traditional pie, these bars are pre-cut before baking for effortless slicing and serving.
Ingredients (Makes About 24 Bars)
For the Crust:
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (2 crusts) – The shortcut to a flaky, golden crust without the hassle of homemade dough.
For the Filling:
- 1 cup light corn syrup – Creates the smooth, sticky texture that holds the filling together.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – Adds deep caramel notes and sweetness.
- 1/2 cup melted butter – Provides richness and enhances the buttery flavor of the crust.
- 2 large eggs – Helps bind the filling and gives structure to the bars.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts the overall warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the pecans' natural flavors.
- 3 cups chopped pecans – The star ingredient! Chopped pecans distribute evenly in every bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
2. Prepare the Bottom Crust
- Unroll one pie crust and place it in the prepared baking pan.
- Trim any excess crust to fit, pressing it gently into the bottom and slightly up the sides.
3. Make the Pecan Pie Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated in the mixture.
4. Assemble the Bars
- Pour the pecan filling over the prepared crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Unroll the second pie crust and place it gently on top of the filling. Press the edges slightly to seal.
5. Pre-Cut Before Baking
- Using a sharp knife, cut the unbaked dough into squares or bars.
- This allows the bars to bake evenly and makes serving easier.
6. Bake to Perfection
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
7. Cool and Serve
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing along the pre-cut lines.
- Serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bars
✔ Use high-quality pecans – Fresh, high-quality pecans enhance the flavor and texture. For extra depth, toast them lightly before mixing them into the filling.
✔ Pre-cut before baking – Cutting the bars before they go into the oven makes them easier to slice and serve later.
✔ Let them cool completely – These bars firm up as they cool, making them easier to handle and ensuring clean cuts.
✔ Make ahead – Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
✔ Customize the filling – Add chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a fun twist.
Serving Suggestions
These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate them even more with:
- A dollop of whipped cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce
Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, chai, or spiced cider for the perfect cozy treat.
Final Thoughts: The Easiest Pecan Pie Bars You'll Ever Make
If you’re looking for a no-fuss way to enjoy classic pecan pie flavors, these Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the ultimate solution. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and foolproof results, they’re a stress-free dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a bake sale, or just a weekday treat, these bars will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Try them today and experience the irresistible combination of flaky crust, gooey filling, and crunchy pecans—with minimal effort!