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Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Rich and nutty Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars featuring a buttery shortbread crust and gooey pecan topping, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into 16 pieces
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 cups chopped pecans
  • Optional: flaky sea salt or coarse sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat until it darkens and smells nutty.
  3. Combine the cooled browned butter with 1/2 cup granulated sugar, water, vanilla extract, and salt. Whisk until even.
  4. Add flour and cornstarch, mixing until a soft dough forms. Press it into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes until set and slightly golden.
  6. In the same skillet, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, melted butter, and heavy cream over medium heat. Whisk until smooth.
  7. Remove from heat and whisk in beaten eggs, then fold in pecans.
  8. Pour the pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading gently.
  9. Bake for 25-28 minutes until set but slightly soft in the center.
  10. Cool completely before lifting out and cutting into squares.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. Can freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie bars, dessert, holiday baking, Brown Butter, easy recipe