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- 1 cup all-purpose flour I use all-purpose flour to create a sturdy base for these bars. - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened The butter adds richness and helps bind the crust together. - 1/4 cup granulated sugar Granulated sugar sweetens the crust and balances the flavors. - 1/4 teaspoon salt A bit of salt enhances the sweetness and adds depth. - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed Brown sugar gives a caramel-like flavor to the filling. - 1/2 cup corn syrup Corn syrup keeps the filling moist and syrupy. - 2 large eggs Eggs help set the filling and give it a nice texture. - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Vanilla adds warmth and complexity to the overall taste. - 1 cup pecans, chopped Chopped pecans provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. - 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Chocolate chips bring a rich, sweet contrast to the nuts. These ingredients combine to make an unforgettable treat. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect chocolate pecan pie bars. {{ingredient_image_1}} Preheating the oven is key. It helps the crust bake evenly. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Leave a bit of paper hanging over the edges. This makes it easy to lift the bars out after baking. To make the crust, mix these ingredients in a bowl: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 teaspoon salt Combine them until the mix is crumbly. The dough should hold together when pressed. Next, press the dough into the bottom of your lined baking dish. Bake this crust for 15 minutes. While the crust bakes, prepare the filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together: - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup corn syrup - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Make sure it mixes well. Then, gently stir in: - 1 cup pecans, chopped - 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips Mix until everything is evenly coated. Once the crust is golden, pour the filling over it. Spread the filling out evenly. Return the dish to the oven. Bake for another 25-30 minutes. You want the filling to be set and slightly puffed. When done, take it out and let it cool completely. Use the parchment paper to lift the bars out. Cut into squares, and enjoy! To get the best texture for your bars, pay close attention to the baking times. Bake the crust for 15 minutes at 350°F. This makes it firm enough to hold the filling. After adding the filling, bake it for 25 to 30 minutes. You want the filling to be set and just slightly puffed. Cooling is key. After baking, let the bars cool completely in the pan. This helps them firm up. If you cut them too early, they might fall apart. Use parchment paper to lift the bars out easily. For extra flavor, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. Just a pinch can bring warmth to the filling. You can also use vanilla bean paste instead of regular vanilla extract. This adds a richer flavor. Toppings can elevate your bars. Try serving them with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate sauce also adds a nice touch. These little extras make your chocolate pecan pie bars even more special! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your pecans are fresh for the best flavor and texture in your bars. Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean edges and easier handling. Store Properly: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week for optimal freshness. Experiment with Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor in your bars. {{image_2}} To make these bars gluten-free, you can swap the all-purpose flour. Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. This blend often has xanthan gum, which helps with texture. Make sure to check for gluten-free labels. When it comes to cooking times, keep an eye on your bars. Gluten-free flours may bake faster. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Look for a set filling that is slightly puffed. For vegan bars, you need to replace the eggs. Use flax eggs or chia eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. For dairy-free options, choose coconut oil instead of butter. Use plant-based chocolate chips. These swaps help keep the rich flavor and texture. Be mindful that the filling may be a bit different. Adjust baking time if needed. Always check for a firm filling. Store your leftover chocolate pecan pie bars in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Let the bars cool down first. Once cool, wrap them in plastic wrap to seal in moisture. If you have a lot of bars, you can stack them with parchment paper between layers. This helps prevent sticking. To freeze your bars, first let them cool completely. Cut them into squares and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer the squares into a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible. When you want to enjoy them, take out how many you need. Thaw them in the fridge overnight for best quality. You can also leave them on the counter for a few hours, but avoid direct sunlight. This helps keep the bars soft and delicious. Yes, you can use other nuts. Some great alternatives for pecans are walnuts and almonds. Walnuts have a rich, buttery flavor. They bring a nice crunch. Almonds add a mild sweetness and a hint of creaminess. Both options work well in this recipe. You will know the bars are done when the filling is set and slightly puffed. The edges should look firm, but the center may still jiggle a bit. To ensure a perfectly set filling, bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking. Absolutely! You can make these bars a day ahead. After baking, let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You now have the tools to create the perfect chocolate pecan pie bars. We discussed key ingredients, precise steps, and smart tips to enhance flavor. You learned how to modify recipes, including gluten-free and vegan options. Don't forget the importance of proper storage to keep them fresh. Enjoy sharing these delicious treats with friends and family. With practice, you can master this recipe and impress everyone!

Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Delicious chocolate pecan pie bars with a buttery crust.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 0.5 cup corn syrup
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • 0.5 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly and the dough holds together.
  • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
  • While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In another bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • Stir in the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips into the filling mixture.
  • Once the crust is done baking, pour the pecan filling over the warm crust, spreading it evenly.
  • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool completely before lifting the bars out of the dish using the parchment overhang.
  • Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

Let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean edges.
Keyword bars, chocolate, dessert, pecan