Name: Spiced Pecan Pie Bars
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 1 can Baking spray with flour; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed; 3/4 cup unsifted powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 4 large eggs; 1 cup light corn syrup; 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/2 cup honey; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 3 cups pecans, coarsely chopped

Introduction to Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

When you think of comforting desserts, spiced pecan pie bars should be at the top of your list. They beautifully blend the traditional pecan pie flavors we all love with the warmth of spices like cinnamon and ginger. Not only are these bars delicious, but they also provide a delightful twist that elevates the classic recipe to new heights.

Why Spiced Pecan Pie Bars are a Must-Try

These bars are an ideal treat for gatherings, holidays, or even just a cozy night at home. Imagine indulging in a rich, gooey filling that’s perfectly balanced with the crunch of toasted pecans. Moreover, the addition of spices brings a unique depth of flavor that sets this recipe apart from the traditional version.

What's even better? They are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, and you have a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your friends and family. If you’re looking to explore more about pecans and their health benefits, check out this article by Healthline.

So, if you’re ready to bring a touch of spice to your dessert table, let’s dive into this spiced pecan pie bars recipe!

Ingredients for Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

When it comes to creating delightful spiced pecan pie bars, the beauty lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Let’s break down the essential ingredients that will make your bars irresistible!

Essential ingredients for the crust

The foundation of your spiced pecan pie bars starts with a buttery, flaky crust. Here’s what you need:

Baking spray with flour: Ensures your bars come out easily from the pan.
3 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the crust its structure.
1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: The key to that flaky texture!
¾ cup unsifted powdered sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness without being overwhelming.
1 tsp. kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.

Key ingredients for the filling

The filling is where the magic happens! It’s a symphony of sweet and warm spices alongside crunchy pecans:

4 large eggs: Acts as a binder for the filling.
1 cup light corn syrup: Provides the signature gooeyness.
⅔ cup packed light brown sugar: Adds depth and richness.
½ cup honey: Brings additional sweetness and moisture.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Helps to keep the filling perfectly set.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: For that luscious mouthfeel.
Spices (1 tsp. ground cinnamon and ½ tsp. ground ginger): Infuse warmth that elevates the flavor profile.
3 cups pecans, coarsely chopped: The star of the show!

If you’re looking to learn more about balancing flavors in desserts, check out this insightful guide. Happy baking!

Preparing Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

Creating spiced pecan pie bars is an enjoyable and straightforward process that combines tradition with a delightful twist of warming spices. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these bars are sure to impress. Let’s walk through each essential step to get you on your way to baking these delicious treats!

Prepping the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures the bars bake evenly and consistently. Next, grab your 13- x 9-inch baking pan. Spray it with baking spray that has flour in it to prevent sticking, and then line the bottom and sides with parchment paper, allowing for a 2- to 3-inch overhang on two sides. This overhang will make it easy to lift the bars out later for slicing. Pro tip: A well-prepped pan saves you time during cleanup and creates perfectly shaped bars!

Making the Crust

For the crust, you’ll need to grab your food processor. Combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cold cubed unsalted butter, ¾ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Pulse the mix until it resembles coarse crumbs—this should take about 6 to 7 pulses. Once you reach that texture, firmly press the mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan. It's important that the crust is well-compressed; this creates a solid base for your spiced pecan pie bars.

Baking the Crust to Perfection

Now, let’s bake that crust! Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the crust is a light golden brown. You'll notice it might have a few cracks, but that’s perfectly normal. These cracks will fill with the delicious filling and create an amazing texture!

Mixing Up the Filling

While your crust is baking, it’s the perfect time to prepare the filling. In a bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup light corn syrup, ⅔ cup packed light brown sugar, ½ cup honey, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon ground ginger until it’s smooth. Fold in 3 cups of coarsely chopped pecans for that classic flavor. The warm spices really elevate the taste of these bars!

Pouring and Baking the Bars

Once the crust has baked and is slightly warm, pour that rich filling over it. Bake in the same oven for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the filling is set. You’ll want to let them cool completely in the pan for about an hour before slicing into 32 scrumptious bars. This cooling time allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to cut and serve.

And there you have it—your homemade spiced pecan pie bars are ready to impress! Perfect for sharing (or keeping for yourself). Enjoy every bite, and be sure to let me know how yours turn out!

Variations on Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

Adding Chocolate Chips

For a delightful twist, consider folding in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into your spiced pecan pie bars. Just 1 cup makes a significant difference, enhancing the rich flavor of the pecans and spices. The combination of warm spices and melted chocolate creates a gooey, indulgent treat that’s hard to resist. If you're feeling adventurous, try using flavored chocolate, like sea salt caramel, to elevate the experience even further.

Using Different Nuts or Seeds

Feel free to mix it up by substituting different nuts or seeds in your spiced pecan pie bars. Walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can provide interesting textures and flavors. You might find that a blend of nuts adds a new depth to your bars; nature and variety make any dessert more exciting! Plus, this little change can cater to nut allergies, ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious treat.

Baking notes for Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

Tips for achieving the perfect crust

To get that perfect crust for your spiced pecan pie bars, it’s crucial to start with cold ingredients. Using cold, cubed butter helps create a flaky texture that’s perfectly tender. When pressing the dough into the pan, be gentle but firm; overworking it can lead to a tough crust. If you don’t have a food processor, you can easily mix the ingredients with a pastry cutter or your hands. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a bit of vanilla extract to the crust.

How to ensure a smooth filling

A smooth filling makes all the difference in your spiced pecan pie bars! Whisk the eggs thoroughly before adding the other filling ingredients, ensuring they reach a light, fluffy consistency. Incorporate the corn syrup and honey gradually to keep the mixture silky. Once you add the pecans, stir just enough to distribute them evenly without over-mixing. For a unique twist, try adding a pinch of nutmeg along with the spices! Letting the filling cool slightly before pouring it over the warm crust can also help it set perfectly.

For more baking tips and tricks, check out this resource for additional insights!

Serving suggestions for Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

Perfect accompaniments for serving

Elevate your spiced pecan pie bars by pairing them with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. They harmonize beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai or your favorite herbal tea. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top enhances the flavor contrast, creating a delightful finish that’s hard to resist. For a festive touch, consider serving them with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce.

Creative presentation ideas

Impress your guests by cutting the spiced pecan pie bars into fun shapes with cookie cutters. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board alongside seasonal fruits like figs and pomegranates for a vibrant table display. Tie each bar with a strand of twine or place them in decorative paper packaging for a charming, gift-ready option. This thoughtful presentation can take your dessert from ordinary to extraordinary, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy get-togethers with friends.

For more inspiration on serving and presenting desserts, check out sources like The Kitchn and Bon Appétit for additional tips!

Time details for Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

Preparation time

Getting started on these spiced pecan pie bars takes about 10 minutes. This quick prep time means you can dive right into the mixing and creating process, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dessert plans.

Baking time

Once your pan is prepped and the filling is ready, it will take approximately 45 minutes in total for baking: 20 minutes for the crust and an additional 25 to 30 minutes for the filling to set. Just enough time to clean up a bit or whip up a cup of coffee to enjoy with your bars!

Total time

From start to finish, you're looking at around 2 hours for these delightful bars, including cooling time. This means you can get your spiced pecan pie bars into the oven, have a moment to relax, and come back for a delicious homemade treat that truly impresses.

For more tips on baking times, check out Baker's Journal for extensive information on perfecting your treats!

Nutritional Information for Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

Calories

Each of these spiced pecan pie bars contains about 250 calories. This makes for a rich dessert that’s perfect for sharing or indulging in a slightly smaller portion during a cozy gathering.

Protein

You'll get around 3 grams of protein per bar, thanks largely to the eggs and pecans. While these bars aren't a substantial source of protein, the nuts do contribute some healthy fats and nutrients that are great for overall health.

Sodium

With approximately 100 milligrams of sodium in each bar, these delicious treats struck a balance between sweet indulgence and mindful eating. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider pairing them with a lightly salted beverage to enhance the flavors without overdoing it.

For more on nutrition and healthy dessert options, check out the USDA FoodData Central for comprehensive insights on ingredients you use in your kitchen!

FAQs about Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?

Absolutely! The beauty of spiced pecan pie bars is their versatility. You can use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. If you’re short on corn syrup, maple syrup works as a splendid alternative. For those who prefer a nut-free version, try substituting the pecans with sunflower seeds or a blend of seeds to maintain that delightful crunch without the nuts.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing your spiced pecan pie bars is straightforward! Place the bars in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to layer parchment paper between bars to prevent sticking—a simple trick for hassle-free snacking later!

What can I serve with spiced pecan pie bars?

These bars are delicious on their own, but pairing them with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream elevates the experience to another level. For a fun twist, serve them alongside spiced chai or a warm cup of cider—perfect complements to those cozy flavors!

Conclusion on Spiced Pecan Pie Bars

In summary, these spiced pecan pie bars offer a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. Perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home, their warming spices create a comforting experience. Enjoy sharing them with friends or family; these bars are sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection!