Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Cozy Up With These Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, my heart warms at the thought of gathering around the table with friends and family, sharing cozy treats that fill the home with delightful aromas. One of my all-time favorite ways to usher in the fall season is with a batch of Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars. Rich, buttery, and oh-so-indulgent, these bars are a gorgeous cross between a classic pecan pie and a buttery shortbread. They evoke memories of warm hugs, autumn afternoons, and laughter shared over dessert.

If you’re looking for a comforting fall dessert that feels both nostalgic and inviting, you’ve just found it! This easy recipe is perfect for your dessert table and will certainly earn a special place in your heart (and recipe collection!). This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The combination of maple syrup, pecans, and a touch of cinnamon creates a rich, warm flavor that feels like a hug in dessert form.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up these bars quickly, making them an excellent option for any gathering or cozy night in.
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars are easily transportable, making them ideal for potlucks, picnics, or just sharing with loved ones.
• Decadent Toppings: Serve them with homemade whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent touch that everyone will love.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With the familiar flavors of pecan pie in every bite, these bars are sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.

What You’ll Need

Gather These Simple Ingredients:

• 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
• 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
• 1/2 cup cold heavy cream (120 grams)
• 3 tbsp powdered sugar (or more to taste, 22 grams)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Flaky sea salt, for topping
• Ice cream, optional for serving

Let’s Make It Together

Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350℉. Spray a 9×13 pan with cooking spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Make the Crust

2. In a medium bowl, melt the butter and stir in the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan in an even layer. Be sure to prick the crust all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes until lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Pecan Pie Filling

5. In a medium bowl, beat the two eggs and set them aside.
6. In a medium pot, combine the remaining salted butter, maple syrup, brown sugar, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until combined, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Continue boiling while stirring lazily for 3 minutes.
7. Remove the pot from heat and carefully spoon out ⅓ cup of the butter mixture into a glass measuring cup. Slowly drizzle this into the bowl with the eggs while whisking vigorously to temper the eggs — this step is crucial to avoid scrambling!
8. Once combined, slowly whisk the egg mixture back into the pot with the remaining filling, continuing to whisk to ensure even mixing.
9. Stir in the pecans, salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, then carefully pour this nutty mixture over the baked crust.

Bake

10. Bake for 28 to 34 minutes, until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean. Allow to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Make Whipped Cream

11. In a medium to large bowl, beat all whipped cream ingredients together at medium-high speed until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-mix! It’s best to prepare the whipped cream just before serving to keep it fluffy.

Serve & Store

12. Slice the cooled bars and serve with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you prefer them cold, let them chill for 20-40 minutes before serving.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Nutty Twist: Add a mix of nuts like hazelnuts or walnuts for a crunchy surprise!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a rich and indulgent touch.
• Maple-Walnut: Swap pecans with walnuts and add a splash more maple syrup for a unique flavor combination.
• Spiced Delight: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a cozy, spiced version that’s perfect for the holidays.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the crust a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just add the filling when you’re ready to bake.
• Slicing Trick: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife dipped in warm water before slicing the bars.
• Storage Tips: Keep the bars in an airtight container to maintain their deliciousness and flavor. The whipped cream is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for 1-2 days in the fridge.
• Add a Splash of Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter whipped cream, feel free to adjust the powdered sugar to your liking.

Nutrition Information per Serving

• Serving Size: 1 bar
• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 24g
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 130mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, you can prepare the crust in advance and store it in the fridge until you add the filling.

Can I use different ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts or syrups to suit your taste.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days for the best flavor.

How long does it last?
These bars can last in the fridge for up to 4 days, but they are best enjoyed fresh!

A Cozy Closing Note

These Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they’re a slice of autumn nostalgia, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for gatherings or an indulgent night in, they will surely become a cherished recipe in your home. Save these delightful bars to your Dessert board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!