Name: Maple Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: Western
Ingredients: 75g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted; 1/3 cup (tightly packed) brown sugar; 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 1 cup plain flour (all-purpose flour); 1 1/2 cups pecans (for filling); 75g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter; 1/2 cup (tightly packed) brown sugar; 1/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 1/3 cup real maple syrup (not artificially flavoured); 2 large eggs (~55g/2oz each); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/3 cup pecans (for decorating); 2 tsp maple syrup (for decorating); 1 pinch salt; 1/4 tsp salt flakes, for sprinkling at the end (optional)

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A delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, these Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a sweet, buttery, and nutty treat that’s much easier to make than a traditional pie. With a rich maple syrup flavor and a crisp shortbread-style base, these bars offer all the indulgence of pecan pie in a convenient handheld format. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These bars bring the irresistible flavor of pecan pie without the hassle of making a pie crust. The combination of maple syrup and toasted pecans creates a deep, caramel-like richness, while the buttery base offers the perfect contrast in texture. Whether you’re entertaining or just craving something sweet and nutty, these bars are simple to prepare, slice beautifully, and taste incredible. Plus, they’re easy to transport and share.

Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the base:

unsalted butter, melted
brown sugar, tightly packed
cooking salt or kosher salt
plain (all-purpose) flour

For the maple pecan pie filling:

pecans
unsalted butter
brown sugar, tightly packed
cooking salt or kosher salt
real maple syrup (not artificially flavored; honey can be substituted)
large eggs
vanilla extract

For decorating:

pecans
maple syrup
salt
salt flakes, optional for sprinkling

Directions

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F (160°C fan). Lightly grease a 20cm/8-inch square pan and line with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
Prepare the base: In a bowl, mix melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir in flour until a dough forms. Press into the base of the prepared pan and smooth out evenly.
Bake the base for 20 minutes, then cool for 15 minutes to help it stay crisp.
Toast the pecans for the filling: Spread on a baking tray and bake in the oven for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly, then roughly chop.
Make the filling: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt. Once it reaches a simmer, remove from heat and cool for 5 minutes. Whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract, then stir in the chopped pecans.
Prepare the decorative topping: Toss whole pecans with maple syrup and a pinch of salt.
Assemble: Pour the filling over the cooled base and spread evenly. Arrange the maple-coated pecans on top.
Bake for 25 minutes until set.
Cool completely at room temperature for about 2 hours (or refrigerate to speed it up). Cut into squares and serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 16 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: ~2 hours 50 minutes

Variations

Nut swaps: Try walnuts, almonds, macadamias, or peanuts in place of pecans.
Honey version: Use honey instead of maple syrup for a warmer, floral sweetness.
Chocolate twist: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling for a deeper flavor.
Spiced version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for a holiday vibe.
Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the base to make it gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—wrap them individually and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving. No reheating is necessary, but you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a softer texture if preferred.

FAQs

What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?

Let the bars cool completely and use a sharp knife. For extra clean cuts, chill them in the fridge and wipe the knife between cuts.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making the base?

The base is more like a shortbread and is quick to make, but you could try a pre-made crust if preferred, adjusting bake times accordingly.

Is it okay to use artificial maple syrup?

Real maple syrup is recommended for best flavor. Artificial syrup can work but will yield a much sweeter and less complex taste.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, they’re perfect for making a day or two in advance. Store in the fridge or at room temperature.

What type of pecans should I use?

Use raw, unsalted pecans. Toasting them before adding to the filling enhances their flavor.

How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The filling should be set and not jiggly in the center. It may puff slightly but will settle as it cools.

Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Eggs are essential for setting the filling, but you could experiment with a flax egg or egg replacer if needed (results may vary).

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch pan. Baking time may need slight adjustment.

Are these bars very sweet?

They are sweet like traditional pecan pie but balanced by the salt and buttery base. Reducing sugar slightly is possible but may affect texture.

Can I use other nuts like cashews or hazelnuts?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite nuts—just toast them first for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a wonderful, fuss-free dessert that delivers the rich, nutty, and buttery flavors of a classic pecan pie in an easy-to-make and shareable format. Whether you stick with traditional pecans or experiment with different nuts and sweeteners, this versatile treat is bound to become a favorite. Make a batch, cut into squares, and enjoy every chewy, crunchy bite.