As the scent of warm maple syrup wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. These Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars bring that cherished fall feeling right to your fingertips, blending the classic flavors of pecan pie into an easy-to-make dessert. With a buttery shortbread crust that crumbles to perfection and a gooey filling bursting with nutty goodness, this recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly adaptable for make-ahead convenience. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or enjoying a cozy afternoon with friends, these bars are your ticket to a delightful treat that’s bound to spark joy. So, are you ready to elevate your dessert game and indulge in this sweet temptation?

Why Are Salted Maple Pecan Bars Perfect?

Irresistible Flavor: The cozy combination of sweet maple syrup and toasted pecans creates an explosion of flavor that’s simply comforting.

Effortless Preparation: You don’t need to be a pastry chef; just mix and bake!

Make-Ahead Delight: Prep these bars a day in advance for gatherings, saving you time and stress.

Crowd Favorite: With their rich, gooey texture and a hint of sea salt, they’re guaranteed to impress your friends and family.

Whether it’s a Thanksgiving feast or a cozy snack, these bars ensure you’ll be the star of any dessert table!

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust

All-purpose flour – Provides structure for the crust; substitute with gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be swapped with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
Brown sugar – Imparts sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor; regular granulated sugar can be used, though the flavor will differ.
Salt – Enhances all other flavors in the crust.

For the Filling

Eggs – Binds the filling together and provides richness; for a vegan option, consider flax or chia seeds as a substitute.
Pure maple syrup – A key flavor contributor with deep, woodsy sweetness; avoid pancake syrup for a true taste.
Vanilla extract – Elevates the overall sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
Chopped pecans – Introduces the classic nutty crunch characteristic of traditional pecan pie.

For Topping

Flaky sea salt – A finishing touch that perfectly balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor; add just before serving.

With these Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars ingredients in hand, you’re one step closer to creating a delicious treat that will leave everyone asking for the recipe!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While your oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal of the bars later. This provides a non-stick surface and enables effortless serving once your delicious Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are baked.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt to enhance flavors. Next, add softened unsalted butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Once mixed, transfer the crumbly mixture into the prepared pan and press it evenly across the bottom. Bake the crust for 15-18 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and the scent fills your kitchen.

Step 3: Prepare the Maple Pecan Filling
While the crust bakes, whisk together pure maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and a tablespoon of flour in a clean bowl until it’s smooth and well combined. The filling should be glossy and slightly thickened; this will ensure your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars have that luscious texture. Fold in the chopped pecans, letting them mingle with the sweet maple mixture.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Once the shortbread crust is beautifully golden, carefully remove it from the oven. Pour the prepared maple pecan filling over the hot crust, spreading it evenly to ensure each bite is filled with flavor. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until the filling is set and lightly golden on top, creating a beautiful contrast.

Step 5: Cool and Finish
After baking, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely, ideally in the pan, for about an hour. This cooling step is crucial as it allows the filling to firm up. Once cooled, sprinkle a generous pinch of flaky sea salt on top, enhancing the sweetness of your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars.

Step 6: Slice and Serve
With the bars cooled and salted, use the overhanging parchment paper to lift them out of the pan. Transfer them to a cutting board and slice into squares or rectangles, depending on your serving preference. These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in an airtight container for up to five days, making them perfect for sharing or savoring later.

Expert Tips for Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

• Toasting Pecans: Enhance flavor by toasting the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes; this brings out their natural nuttiness.

• Chill for Slicing: For perfectly neat cuts, refrigerate your bars for 30-60 minutes before slicing; this helps preserve their structure.

• Storage Advice: Keep the Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the fridge.

• Egg Substitutes: If you need a vegan option, replace the eggs with a mix of flax or chia seeds; use 1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg.

• Personalize the Recipe: Feel free to swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you crave a different nutty flavor, or add spices like cinnamon for a warm kick.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the shortbread crust up to 24 hours in advance by keeping it tightly covered in the refrigerator, allowing it to maintain its freshness and buttery texture. Additionally, you can mix the maple pecan filling and store it separately in the fridge for up to 3 days; just give it a good stir before using. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the filling over the pre-baked crust and follow the final baking instructions. This way, you can quickly whip up a homemade dessert that is just as delicious but with minimal day-of effort!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Fridge: Keep your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will keep them fresh while preserving that delightful gooey texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bars in a well-sealed container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen bars overnight in the fridge to maintain their delicious consistency before serving.

Reheating: For a warm treat, gently reheat individual squares in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until just warmed through.

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars and tailor them to your taste!

Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor twist; each nut brings its own unique character.
Chocolatey Delight: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the filling for a delightful combination of sweet and nutty; chocolate makes everything better!
Spice It Up: Incorporate warm spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor that evokes cozy feelings. Imagine savoring each bite where spices dance with maple sweetness!
Fruit Fusion: Mix in dried cranberries or cherries for a tart contrast against the sweet filling; it adds a pop of color and a surprising burst of flavor.
Lower Sugar Option: Substitute some of the brown sugar with coconut sugar or a zero-calorie sweetener for a lighter version. You won’t sacrifice taste while enjoying a guilt-free treat.
Gluten-Free Bliss: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make it suitable for everyone. You can still enjoy the same great flavors without compromise.
Salt Variations: Experiment with flavored sea salts like smoked or garlic-infused; they can add an unexpected but delicious dimension to the bars!

If you’re in the mood, consider pairing these delightful bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee for an indulgent afternoon treat. And remember, for a classic dessert experience, you can’t go wrong with my Steak Kidney Pie or a batch of Bake Chocolate Bars for those sweet tooth moments! Enjoy your baking adventure!

What to Serve with Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars

Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these indulgent bars with delightful accompaniments that truly enhance their flavors.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy, sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the rich bars, balancing sweetness and texture perfectly.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm, gooey bars, creating a comforting dessert experience that is simply unforgettable.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the bars intensifies their sweetness, while adding a luscious, gooey texture that every sweet tooth will adore.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of freshly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso complement the sweet maple and toasted pecans, making for an inviting flavor combination.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of berries or citrus fruits provides a zesty contrast that lightens the richness of the bars – a perfect balance for a full meal.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling crunchy granola on top adds texture and a hint of extra nutty flavor, enhancing the overall experience with every bite.
Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate, creating a warm and heartening experience that pairs beautifully with the bars for those chilly fall afternoons.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For true maple lovers, a drizzle of pure maple syrup over the bars strengthens that signature flavor, making each bite even more irresistible.

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars Recipe FAQs

How can I select the best ingredients for my Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars?
When choosing your pecans, look for whole nuts that are plump and free from dark spots or rancid smells. Freshness makes a huge difference! For the maple syrup, opt for pure maple syrup rather than the imitation kind for an authentic flavor that truly shines in the bars.

What is the best way to store Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars?
Store your Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will help retain their gooey texture while keeping them fresh. It’s a great idea to place parchment paper between layers if you’re stacking them!

Can I freeze Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your bars, first, let them cool completely. Then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a well-sealed container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the fridge!

What should I do if my filling is not setting properly?
If your filling isn’t setting, it could be due to underbaking or too much liquid from the eggs or syrup. Make sure to bake until it’s lightly golden and firm to the touch. You can also try baking a few minutes longer, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning. If all else fails, chilling the bars thoroughly can help stabilize the filling a bit more before serving.

Are there any dietary considerations with Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars?
Yes, if you’re considering allergies or dietary restrictions, this recipe can be easily adapted. To make it vegan, replace the eggs with a mix of ground flaxseeds or chia seeds. Use 1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg. Additionally, for gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Enjoy your deliciously accommodating treats!