Description
These autumn maple pecan pie bars combine the rich flavors of classic pecan pie with the convenience of a bar cookie. Featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust and a gooey, maple-infused filling, they are an easy, make-ahead holiday dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups (150g) graham crackers, crushed
- 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons (25g) brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup (240ml) Grade B maple syrup
- ½ cup (120ml) light corn syrup
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 ½ cups (170g) pecan halves
- Sea salt flakes (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the long sides, and grease lightly.
- In a medium bowl, combine crushed graham crackers, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt. Mix until it resembles wet sand.
- Press the crust mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden, then remove from oven.
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).
- While the crust bakes, whisk together maple syrup, corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, baking soda, and cinnamon in a large bowl until smooth and frothy.
- Sprinkle pecan halves evenly over the hot crust. Pour the filling mixture over the pecans and spread evenly.
- Bake at 325°F for 35-40 minutes, or until edges are set and bubbling, and the center is just barely jiggly.
- Cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes, then lift out using the parchment overhang and cool completely (about 1 hour).
- Sprinkle with sea salt flakes if desired, then slice into 12-16 squares.
Notes
For best results, use Grade B maple syrup for a deeper flavor. Ensure eggs are at room temperature for even setting. Do not skip pre-baking the crust to prevent sogginess. Bars must cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 18
- Sodium: 110
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 24
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
Keywords: autumn, maple, pecan pie bars, holiday dessert, fall baking, graham cracker crust, make-ahead dessert, easy holiday treats