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Pecan Pie Bars

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal after baking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl, and using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The key here is to incorporate the butter without melting it, as this helps create a tender, flaky crust.
  3. Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a solid and even layer.
  4. Bake the crust for about 20 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown around the edges. This pre-baking step ensures the crust holds up well to the filling and doesn’t become soggy.
  5. Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Filling

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and well combined. Whisking ensures the filling has a smooth, even texture.
  2. Gently fold in the pecans, making sure they’re evenly distributed in the mixture.
  3. Pour the filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it out gently to ensure the pecans and filling cover the crust evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Bars

  1. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the center no longer jiggles. The pecans should be nicely toasted, giving them a rich, nutty flavor.
  2. Remove the dish from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the bars to cool thoroughly is crucial for clean, even slicing.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

  1. Once completely cool, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the baking dish. Place them on a cutting board and, using a sharp knife, cut into squares or rectangles as desired.
  2. Serve the bars at room temperature, and enjoy the perfect combination of buttery crust and gooey pecan filling. These bars pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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