Name: Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 75 g unsalted butter (melted); 1/3 cup brown sugar (tightly packed); 1/4 tsp cooking salt (or kosher salt); 1 cup plain flour (or all-purpose flour); 1 1/2 cups pecans ((Note 1)); 75 g unsalted butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar (tightly packed); 1/4 tsp cooking salt (or kosher salt); 1/3 cup maple syrup (real, not artificially flavored); 2 large eggs ((~55g/2oz each)); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/3 cup pecans; 2 tsp maple syrup; 1 pinch salt; 1/4 tsp salt flakes (for sprinkling at the end (optional but recommended))

Introduction to Maple Pecan Pie Bars

If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat, look no further than maple pecan pie bars! These indulgent treats capture the flavors of traditional pecan pie but come in an easy-to-handle bar form. Perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth at home, they merge the rich taste of pecans with the warm, comforting notes of maple syrup.

Why Maple Pecan Pie Bars should be your new favorite dessert?

These bars are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just enjoying a quiet night in, they’re bound to impress. The combination of a buttery crust topped with a luscious filling creates the ideal texture contrast, ensuring every bite is a treat.

Plus, with just a prep time of 20 minutes and a bake time of 30 minutes, you can whip these up in no time. Want to make it a bit different? Try swapping out pecans for your favorite nuts like walnuts or almonds. Do you have a nut allergy? No worries, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your needs. So, why not give these maple pecan pie bars a try? They just might become your new go-to dessert!

Ingredients for Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Essential ingredients for the base

To create a deliciously buttery base for your maple pecan pie bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:

75g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter: Melted to create a rich foundation.
⅓ cup brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
¼ teaspoon cooking salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.
1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of your base, creating the right texture.

Key ingredients for the maple pecan filling

The filling is where the magic happens, blending flavors that make each bite irresistible. You’ll want:

1 ½ cups pecans: Chopped or whole, these give that classic pecan pie taste. Not a fan? Substitute with almonds or walnuts for a twist!
75g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter: Provides richness and creaminess.
⅓ cup maple syrup: Be sure to use real maple syrup for the best flavor!
2 large eggs: Bind the filling and add a bit of structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For that comforting aroma and taste.

Toppings and decorations

To finish off your maple pecan pie bars, consider these delightful touches:

⅓ cup whole pecans: Drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet crunch on top.
Pinch of salt: A little sprinkle on top brings out all the flavors.
¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt: This optional garnish adds a fancy touch to your dessert.

With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a scrumptious treat that will impress anyone you share it with! Happy baking!

Step-by-step Preparation of Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Making maple pecan pie bars is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of pecan pie while keeping things easy and fun. Follow these steps to create a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Prepping the oven and pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C if you're using a fan-forced oven. While the oven heats up, grease a 20cm (8-inch) square pan with a bit of butter. Line the bottom and sides with baking parchment, leaving some overhang. This will make it easy to lift the bars out of the pan once they’re cooled.

Making the base for the bars

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 75g (5 tablespoons) of unsalted butter. Once melted, mix in ⅓ cup of packed brown sugar and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Stir in 1 cup of plain flour until everything is combined. The base will be slightly crumbly, so press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. You can use your hands for this and then a spatula to smooth it out.

Cooling the base - why it matters

Why should you cool the base? Simply put, it helps keep the bars crisp. After baking the base for about 15 minutes, allow it to cool for approximately 15 minutes before adding the filling. This step can ensure your maple pecan pie bars don't end up soggy.

Toasting and chopping the pecans

Next, it’s time to enhance the flavor of the pecans. Spread 1 ½ cups of pecans on a baking tray and pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes. Toasting them not only brings out their rich flavor but also adds a crunchy texture. Once they’re done, let them cool slightly before roughly chopping them.

Preparing the delicious maple filling

For the filling, melt 75g (5 tablespoons) of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in ½ cup of packed brown sugar, ⅓ cup of real maple syrup (skip the artificial stuff for the best flavor), and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a simmer, then remove it from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. After it cools, whisk in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, then add your chopped pecans.

Combining the filling and pouring it onto the base

Carefully pour this delectable filling over the cooled base in the pan. Make sure to evenly spread it out to ensure every bar bakes uniformly.

Topping with pecans and baking to perfection

To add some extra flair, toss a few whole pecans with 2 teaspoons of maple syrup and sprinkle them on top. This step adds a lovely visual touch and even more flavor. Bake everything together for 25 minutes, until the filling is set.

Cooling and cutting the bars

Once they’re out of the oven, let the maple pecan pie bars cool completely to room temperature—this may take about 2 hours. The patience will pay off, as cutting them while they’re warm may lead to a gooey mess. Once cooled, slice into squares and enjoy your sweet creation!

Give this simple recipe a try for a scrumptious treat that’s bound to impress your friends and family! For more tasty dessert ideas, you might want to check out AllRecipes or Food Network.

Variations on Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Nutty Alternatives: Walnuts, Macadamias, and Beyond

If you're not a fan of pecans, maple pecan pie bars offer the flexibility to shine with other nuts! Consider swapping in walnuts for a richer flavor, or try macadamias for a buttery twist. Almonds could also provide a delightful crunch! If you’re feeling adventurous, peanuts and honey could create a sweet and salty masterpiece that’s equally satisfying. Each nut brings its unique texture and taste, giving you countless ways to enjoy this beloved dessert.

Flavor Experiments: Switching Out the Maple Syrup

While maple syrup is the star of the show in maple pecan pie bars, don’t hesitate to experiment with other sweeteners. Agave syrup offers a similar sweetness with a lighter flavor, while honey can add a delicious floral note. For a tropical twist, try coconut syrup, or even brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste. Each alternative adds its character, making this recipe endlessly adaptable to suit your palate or pantry situation!

Ready to bake? Your taste buds will thank you!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Ensuring the perfect texture

To achieve that delightful texture in your maple pecan pie bars, focus on the base. Ensure you press it evenly into the pan and avoid overbaking—it should be golden brown but not dry. Cooling the base for 15 minutes before adding the filling helps keep it crisp. For a luxurious feel, consider using fresh, high-quality pecans, which add both crunch and flavor.

Adjusting sweetness levels

Maple syrup is naturally sweet, but you can tailor it to your taste! If you prefer a less sweet maple pecan pie experience, reduce the brown sugar slightly. Alternatively, consider replacing some of the syrup with honey for a unique twist. Don't forget to taste as you go, ensuring each layer of flavor aligns to your preference! For more tips on achieving balance in sweetness, you can check out resources like BBC Good Food or America's Test Kitchen.

Serving Suggestions for Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Pairing suggestions: what to serve these bars with

These maple pecan pie bars are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a few complementary items can elevate the experience. Try serving them warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. A drizzle of extra maple syrup over the top adds an extra touch of sweetness. For a drink pairing, consider a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea, which can balance the richness of the bars beautifully.

Creative ways to present your bars

When it comes to presentation, a simple touch can make these maple pecan pie bars shine. Cut them into uniform squares and arrange them on a rustic wooden board. Garnish each piece with a whole maple-coated pecan and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for visual appeal. Adding a small sign or label with the name of the treat can make them feel even more special—perfect for gatherings or holiday parties. Don't forget to share your creations on social media; your friends will want in on the deliciousness!

For more ideas on how to serve baked goods, check out Baker’s Journal.

Time Breakdown for Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Preparation time

Getting ready to bake these delicious maple pecan pie bars takes just 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and making that delightful buttery base that holds everything together.

Cooking time

Once you pop your creation in the oven, it will need about 30 minutes to bake to perfection. Don’t forget to keep an eye on it as that delightful maple aroma fills your kitchen!

Total time

From start to finish, you’ll spend around 2 hours and 50 minutes before you can slice into these sweet, nutty bars. This includes baking, cooling, and letting those lovely flavors meld together. Trust us, this wait will be worth it!

For more tips on timing and techniques, check out resources from King Arthur Baking, where you'll find additional baking insights.

Nutritional Facts for Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Calories per serving
Each slice of these delightful maple pecan pie bars packs a satisfying 246 calories, making them a sweet treat that won’t derail your healthy eating habits.

Key macronutrient breakdown
Here’s a closer look at the macronutrients per serving:

Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 16g (with 6g saturated fat)

These values showcase a balanced dessert experience, highlighting the wholesome ingredients like pecans and maple syrup. For detailed information on the nutritional content, consider checking databases like USDA FoodData Central. Enjoying these bars can be part of a well-rounded diet, especially when shared with friends!

FAQs about Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Can I use other nuts in the recipe?

Absolutely! While pecans are the star of these maple pecan pie bars, you can easily swap them out for your favorites. Almonds, walnuts, and macadamia nuts all work beautifully in this recipe. I’ve even thought about experimenting with peanuts for a twist — just think about the flavor combinations!

How long can these bars be stored?

These delightful bars can last up to seven days in the fridge, making them a perfect make-ahead treat. If you choose to store them in the pantry, they'll be good for about three to four days as long as they’re kept in a cool place.

What’s the best way to serve leftovers?

To enjoy leftover maple pecan pie bars at their best, try warming them slightly in the microwave. This brings back their just-baked feel and enhances the maple flavor. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delicious treat! For more tips, check out this article on dessert storage.

Conclusion on Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Why you’ll love making and sharing these bars!

If you're looking for a unique treat, these maple pecan pie bars will win everyone's hearts! Their combination of sweet maple syrup and crunchy pecans is utterly irresistible. Perfect for gatherings, they’re easy to slice and share. Treat yourself, your family, and friends to this delicious dessert!