Step into a world of indulgence with our Spiced Pecan Pie Bars – a delectable twist on the timeless classic. These bars offer the perfect marriage of a buttery crust, a sumptuous pecan filling, and a medley of warm spices that dance on your taste buds.
Picture a dessert that combines the nostalgia of pecan pie with the convenience of a handheld delight. From the first bite, you’ll experience the crunch of a perfectly baked shortbread crust, followed by the gooey richness of the pecan filling. What sets these bars apart is the carefully balanced blend of spices, adding a tantalizing warmth that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or just treating yourself, our Spiced Pecan Pie Bars are a celebration of taste and texture. They capture the essence of the season, making every bite a journey through the comforting flavors that define this time of year.
Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as you savor the harmonious combination of pecans and spices in every bite. These Spiced Pecan Pie Bars are not just a dessert – they’re a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.
How to make Spiced Pecan Pie Bars
Spiced Pecan Pie Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup pecans (chopped)
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square baking pan (8x8 inches or a similar size) and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Prepare the Crust:
- In a bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar.
- Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Make the Pecan Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, beaten eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated with the mixture.
Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the Spiced Pecan Pie Bars to cool completely in the pan.
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
- Cut into squares or bars and serve. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450 calories
- Total Fat: Around 25-30 grams
- Saturated Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Cholesterol: Roughly 100-120 milligrams
- Sodium: Around 200-250 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45 grams
- Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-3 grams
- Sugars: Around 25-30 grams
- Protein: Roughly 5-7 grams
Please note that these values are indicative and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. If you have specific dietary concerns or preferences, it’s always a good idea to calculate the nutritional information based on the exact ingredients and quantities you include in your recipe. Additionally, consider adjusting portion sizes to meet your nutritional goals.
Benefits of Spiced Pecan Pie Bars
While Spiced Pecan Pie Bars are undoubtedly a delightful and indulgent treat, they also offer some potential nutritional benefits, particularly from the key ingredients used in the recipe:
- Pecans:
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Pecans are a good source of monounsaturated fats, which can be heart-healthy.
- Dietary Fiber: Pecans contain dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping with satiety.
- Spices (Cinnamon and Nutmeg):
- Antioxidants: Cinnamon and nutmeg are rich in antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
- Eggs:
- Protein: Eggs are a good source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function.
- Moderate Sugar Content:
- While the sugar content should be enjoyed in moderation, the moderate use of sugars in the recipe can contribute to the overall enjoyment of the treat.
- Flour and Butter:
- Energy Source: The crust, made with flour and butter, provides a source of energy.
It’s important to note that while these benefits exist, Spiced Pecan Pie Bars are still a dessert, and consuming them in moderation is key. Excessive intake may contribute to higher calorie and sugar consumption, which could have potential health implications. As with any treat, it’s best to enjoy them as part of a balanced and varied diet. If you have specific dietary concerns or health conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian.
Conclusion
Spiced Pecan Pie Bars offer a delightful fusion of rich flavors and textures. Combining the buttery goodness of a shortbread crust, a luscious pecan filling, and a hint of warm spices, these bars are a delectable treat that captures the essence of the classic pecan pie in a convenient, shareable form. While providing a source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein, it’s essential to enjoy these bars in moderation, considering their sugar and calorie content. Perfect for festive occasions or a sweet indulgence, Spiced Pecan Pie Bars are a delicious way to savor the comforting flavors of the season.