Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful treat that captures the essence of traditional pecan pie without the hassle of a crust. These Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are perfect for various occasions, from holiday gatherings to casual family dinners. With a rich maple flavor and a crispy shortbread base, they are sure to impress your guests. The addition of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness, making each bite irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Skip the complex pie-making process! These bars come together quickly and easily.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of maple syrup and pecans delivers a taste that feels indulgent yet comforting.
• Perfect for Sharing: Slice them into bars for easy serving, making them ideal for parties and potlucks.
• Versatile Topping Options: Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for added richness, or enjoy them plain!
• Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare these bars in advance and store them for up to several days to save time on busy occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Electric mixer (for whipped cream)
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking pan: This size ensures even baking and allows you to easily slice the bars into perfect portions.
• Electric mixer: A powerful tool that helps achieve fluffy whipped cream quickly without tiring your arms!

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:
– 1/2 cup cold heavy cream (120 grams)
– 3 tbsp powdered sugar (or more to taste, 22 grams)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

For topping:
– 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℉. Spray a 9×13 inch pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper. This will help your bars come out cleanly after baking.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a medium bowl, melt the butter. Stir in the remaining crust ingredients until you achieve coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan. Prick the crust all over with a fork to prevent puffing. Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside once baked.

Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling

In another bowl, beat two eggs and set aside. In a medium pot, combine melted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Heat over medium heat while stirring until combined. Bring this mixture to a boil, then let it boil gently for about 3 minutes while stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.

Carefully spoon out ⅓ cup of this mixture into a glass measuring cup. Slowly drizzle it into the beaten eggs while whisking continuously; this tempers the eggs to avoid scrambling. Return this egg mixture back into the pot while whisking vigorously again. Stir in pecans, salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon before pouring it over your baked crust.

Step 4: Bake Again

Bake your assembled bars for an additional 28 to 34 minutes. The center should jiggle slightly when moved, but a toothpick should come out mostly clean when inserted into the filling. Allow cooling completely before slicing into bars.

Step 5: Make Whipped Cream

In a medium to large bowl, combine heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form—be careful not to overmix as it can turn grainy.

Step 6: Serve & Store

Slice your cooled bars and serve topped with freshly made whipped cream or ice cream if desired! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; let them sit at room temperature briefly before serving unless you prefer them chilled.

Enjoy these delicious Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars any time you’re craving something sweet!

How to Serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Serving Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars is an enjoyable experience that can elevate any gathering. These bars pair beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors and textures.

With Whipped Cream

• Top the bars with freshly made whipped cream for a light, creamy contrast that complements the sweetness of the filling.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm bars with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The melting ice cream adds a delightful creaminess to each bite.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish your servings with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries. Their tartness cuts through the sweetness and adds a pop of color.

Drizzle of Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce over the bars can enhance their rich flavor, making them even more indulgent.

Coffee or Tea

• Pair these bars with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect afternoon treat. The warmth of the beverage complements the dessert wonderfully.

How to Perfect Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Perfecting your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars will ensure they are a hit at any occasion. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure your eggs and cream are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix – While preparing the filling, mix just until combined to avoid tough bars; overmixing can lead to a less desirable texture.
• Pre-bake the Crust – Make sure to bake the crust until lightly golden before adding the filling; this ensures it remains crisp under the gooey layer.
• Check for Doneness – Look for a slight jiggle in the center when baking; this indicates it will set properly as it cools.
• Cool Completely – Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing; this helps them hold their shape and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream – A classic choice that provides a creamy contrast, enhancing each bite.
2. Caramel Sauce – Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness.
3. Candied Pecans – Use these as a crunchy topping or side; they echo the flavors in the pie bars while adding texture.
4. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light, refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the pie bars perfectly.
5. Chocolate Sauce – For chocolate lovers, serving these bars with chocolate sauce offers a delightful twist on traditional flavors.
6. Coffee Cake – A slice of coffee cake alongside creates an interesting flavor combination, perfect for brunch gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially eggs and cream, are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent the batter from mixing well.
• Overmixing the crust: When combining the crust ingredients, stop mixing once you achieve coarse crumbs. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Always line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup. Skipping this step can result in sticky bars that are hard to slice.
• Not letting the bars cool completely: Allow the bars to cool fully before slicing. Cutting too early can make them fall apart and ruin their presentation.
• Ignoring the baking time: Keep an eye on your oven while baking. Every oven is different; check for doneness by looking for a slight jiggle in the center.
• Serving without toppings: Don’t forget that a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and whipped cream elevate these bars. Serving them plain misses out on delicious flavor contrasts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure bars are completely cooled before storing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

• Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place bars on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual bars on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. Just keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.

How do I know when my pie bars are done baking?

The center should have a slight jiggle, and a toothpick inserted will come out mostly clean.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes! These bars store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.

What variations can I try with Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or spices like nutmeg for extra flavor!

How should I serve Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars?

Serve these delicious bars with whipped cream and a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt for enhanced taste.

Final Thoughts

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are an irresistible dessert that combines rich flavors and textures without the need for traditional pie crusts. Their versatility allows for various customization options—add chocolate chips or different nuts based on your preference! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress at any gathering!