Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, offering all the rich flavors you love without the hassle of dealing with pie crust. With a luscious maple pecan filling on a buttery cinnamon shortbread base, these Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family dinners. The addition of flaky sea salt elevates the sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for complicated pie crust techniques; just mix and bake!
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pecans provides a rich, sweet taste.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, potlucks, or any celebration.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These bars will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples, making it accessible for everyone.

Tools and Preparation

To make Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect size for even baking and easy slicing into bars.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve fluffy whipped cream with minimal effort.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for the best results in baking.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup salted butter, melted (226 grams)
• 2 cups + 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, spooned & leveled (284 grams)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (110 grams)
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup salted butter, (113 grams)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed (110 grams)
• 3 tbsp heavy cream, at room temperature (45 grams)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3 and 1/4 cups pecan halves
• 1/8 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 3/4 tsp cinnamon

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 1/2 cup cold heavy cream (120 grams)
• 3 tbsp powdered sugar, or more to taste (22 grams)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Flaky sea salt, for topping
• Ice cream, optional for serving

How to Make Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350℉. This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

1. Spray a 9×13 inch pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, melt the butter.
3. Stir in the remaining crust ingredients until you achieve coarse crumbs.
4. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
5. Prick the crust all over with a fork to prevent puffing up during baking.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Pecan Pie Filling

1. Beat the eggs in a medium bowl and set them aside.
2. In a medium pot, combine melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and heavy cream.
3. Heat over medium heat while stirring until well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil; let it boil gently for about 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and temper the eggs by slowly drizzling ⅓ cup of the hot mixture into beaten eggs while whisking vigorously.
6. Combine this egg mixture back into the pot with the remaining filling ingredients (pecans, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon).
7. Pour this filling over the cooled crust.

Step 4: Bake Again

Bake for an additional 28-34 minutes or until slightly jiggly in the center but mostly set when tested with a toothpick.

Step 5: Make Whipped Cream

In a medium to large bowl:
1. Combine all whipped cream ingredients.
2. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form—avoid over-mixing.

Step 6: Serve and Store

Slice cooled bars into squares or rectangles and serve topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days—allow them to come back to room temperature before serving again unless you enjoy them chilled!

How to Serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Serving Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with several accompaniments. Here are some great suggestions to elevate your dessert presentation.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast to the rich bars.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a deliciously comforting treat.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and a touch of elegance.

Topped with Flaky Sea Salt

• A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the flavors and provides a delightful crunch.

Garnished with Pecans

• For added texture and visual appeal, garnish the bars with chopped pecans before serving.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair the bars with slices of fresh fruit like apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Perfecting your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your bars turn out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs and cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Filling: Mix just until combined when adding ingredients to avoid a dense texture.
• Check for Doneness: The bars should have a slight jiggle in the center when done. Overbaking can lead to dry bars.
• Let Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing, as this helps them set properly.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

When serving Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, pairing them with the right side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some perfect options:

1. Spiced Apple Cider
   Warm spiced apple cider complements the flavors of pecan pie perfectly and adds a festive touch.
2. Cranberry Sauce
   The tartness of cranberry sauce balances the sweetness of the bars, making it a refreshing side option.
3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   Their natural sweetness pairs well with pecan flavors, adding a savory element to your dessert spread.
4. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup is cozy and seasonal, creating a lovely contrast to the sweet bars.
5. Cheese Platter
   Offer a selection of cheeses such as brie or goat cheese for guests who enjoy savory sides with their desserts.
6. Mixed Greens Salad
   A light salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the bars, providing balance on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, even small mishaps can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes and how to prevent them.

• Boldly skip the cooling step: Not allowing your bars to cool completely can lead to messy slices. Patience is key for clean cuts.
• Boldly ignore measuring techniques: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the texture of your bars. Always spoon and level flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Boldly rush the baking time: Pulling the bars out too soon may leave them undercooked, while overbaking dries them out. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking.
• Boldly forget about salt: Skipping the flaky sea salt on top can diminish flavor depth. Don’t overlook this simple yet important finishing touch.
• Boldly make whipped cream in advance: Preparing whipped cream too early can cause it to deflate. Make it just before serving for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for 15-20 seconds. Keep an eye on them to prevent overheating.
• Bold Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars that may help you as you prepare this treat.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! You can substitute walnuts or almonds if desired, but pecans provide a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with maple syrup.

How do I know when my bars are done baking?

The center should have a slight jiggle when you move the pan, and a toothpick should come out mostly clean.

Can I make these bars vegan?

You can try using plant-based butter and flax eggs as substitutes; however, this may alter the texture slightly.

What is the best way to serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars?

Serving them with freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream enhances their flavor and adds creaminess.

How long do these bars last?

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars offer a delightful twist on traditional pecan pie, combining rich flavors with ease of preparation. Their versatility allows for various toppings like whipped cream or ice cream, making them perfect for any gathering. Don’t hesitate to customize with different nuts or spices—enjoy!