Name: Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485253H22M46S
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (crust); 1/4 cup granulated sugar (crust); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (crust); 2 large eggs (filling); 3/4 cup light corn syrup (filling); 1/2 cup brown sugar (filling); 1 tsp vanilla extract (filling); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (filling); 1/4 tsp salt (filling); 1 cup chopped pecans (filling)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect shortcut to enjoying the classic pecan pie flavors without the fuss. With a buttery shortbread crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling, these bars are an easy-to-make treat that I can throw together in no time—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when I just want a sweet fix without much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these bars give me all the nostalgic flavors of pecan pie without the hassle of making a homemade crust or worrying about pie shaping. They come together quickly, bake in a single pan, and slice up beautifully into portable squares. Whether I'm craving something sweet midweek or need a quick dessert for guests, this recipe always delivers. It's simple, satisfying, and irresistibly good.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the filling:

Large eggs
Light corn syrup
Brown sugar
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Salt
Chopped pecans

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking pan with parchment paper.
For the crust, I mix together the flour and sugar, then cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. I press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for about 15 minutes until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, I whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, flour, and salt until smooth. Then I fold in the chopped pecans.
I pour the pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust and return the pan to the oven. I bake for another 25–30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly browned on top.
Once done, I let the bars cool completely before slicing them into squares.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 16 bars, depending on how I slice them. Prep time is around 15 minutes, and baking time totals about 40–45 minutes. I usually allow an additional hour for cooling before cutting and serving.

Variations

Sometimes I like to add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a warm spice kick. When I want something extra decadent, I drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars. I've also swapped out half the pecans for walnuts or almonds when I’m in the mood for something different.

Storage/Reheating

I store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. If I want to reheat them slightly, I pop a piece in the microwave for about 10 seconds to warm it up—just enough to bring back that gooey texture.

FAQs

How do I know when the pecan filling is set?

I check by gently shaking the pan—if the center is mostly firm with just a slight jiggle, it's ready. It will continue to set as it cools.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, I wrap the bars individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container. They keep well for up to 2 months. I thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?

Absolutely. I’ve used dark corn syrup for a deeper, richer flavor. It works just as well, but gives the bars a slightly more intense taste.

What’s the best way to cut clean slices?

I use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each cut. Letting the bars cool completely (or chilling them) also helps get neat edges.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, I swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking mix, and they turn out just as delicious.

Conclusion

These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are one of my favorite go-to desserts when I want something sweet and nostalgic without spending hours in the kitchen. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s the holidays or just a random Tuesday, I never regret whipping up a batch.

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Sue
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including cooling)
Yield: 16 bars
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are an easy-to-make version of the classic pecan pie, featuring a buttery shortbread crust and gooey pecan filling. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a quick sweet treat.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine flour and sugar for the crust, then cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
While the crust bakes, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, flour, and salt until smooth.
Fold in chopped pecans.
Pour pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until filling is set and lightly browned on top.
Let bars cool completely before slicing into squares.