Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie. These bars combine the rich, nutty flavor of brown butter with crunchy pecans and a buttery crust to create a dessert that is both comforting and sophisticated. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or simply a treat to enjoy at home. With their sweet, caramel-like filling and golden crust, these bars are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

In addition to their delicious taste, Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for busy bakers. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. Let’s dive into the details of making these delectable bars!

Ingredients about Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

List of Ingredients with Measurements

To make Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars, you will need the following ingredients:

• For the crust:
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• For the filling:
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup corn syrup
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, browned
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped

Optional Ingredient Substitutions

If you are running low on some ingredients or simply wish to try different flavors, here are some substitutions you can consider:

• Granulated Sugar: You may use coconut sugar or reduce the sweetness by using only brown sugar.
• Corn Syrup: Honey or maple syrup can provide a natural alternative to corn syrup.
• Pecans: Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or mixed nuts for a different texture and flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: If you only have salted butter, you can use it but consider reducing or omitting the added salt in the crust.

How to Make Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Brown Butter

To start off, place the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to melt, stirring frequently. Keep an eye on it as it cooks, as you want it to turn golden brown, not burnt. This process should take about 5-7 minutes. You will notice a nutty aroma when it is ready. Once browned, remove it from heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Use an electric mixer to cream these ingredients together until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.

Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan, creating a smooth, even layer. Make sure to press firmly enough so that the crust holds together but not so hard that it becomes tough. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing the crust.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the prepared crust into the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. The edges should have a nice color, but be careful not to overbake. Once baked, remove the crust from the oven and allow it to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and corn syrup. Mix in the cooled brown butter, followed by adding the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans until everything is well blended.

Pour this delicious filling onto the slightly cooled crust and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is slightly golden. You may see some bubbling, which is perfectly normal. Once done, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are cool, cut them into squares and serve. These bars are rich and sweet, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings!

How to Serve Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Best Ways to Serve Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars can be enjoyed in several ways. They are delicious on their own, but also pair well with a variety of accompaniments. You can serve them plain for a classic experience or dress them up with toppings to create a truly indulgent treat.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

Consider serving these bars alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a wonderful contrast in temperature and texture. For an added flavor boost, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the top for an extra sweet touch.

These bars also make a lovely addition to holiday dessert tables, providing a festive touch to any spread. Pair them with coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk for the perfect afternoon treat!

How to Store Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Proper Storage Methods

To keep your Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Make sure they cool completely before storing to prevent condensation, which can make the bars soggy. Generally, they will last up to 3-5 days, maintaining their delicious flavor and texture.

Tips for Reheating or Freezing

If you wish to enjoy your bars warm, simply microwave a square for about 10-15 seconds. For longer storage, you can also freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy them after freezing, let them thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat them if desired.

Tips to Make Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not browning the butter correctly. It’s essential to keep an eye on the butter while it cooks; once it starts to smell nutty and turns golden, remove it from heat quickly to prevent burning.

Another mistake is overmixing the filling. Once you add the eggs, mix just until combined. Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a less dense texture in the filling.

Helpful Tips for Better Results

• Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for better blending, especially the butter and eggs.
• Use fresh pecans; stale nuts can detract from the overall flavor of the bars.
• If you want a firmer filling, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour to the filling mixture to help stabilize it.

Variation of Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe

While the classic Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are delicious as they are, there are many ways to put your own spin on this recipe. For instance, you could add chocolate chips to the filling for a delightful chocolate pecan version. Mixing in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also add a warm, cozy flavor that enhances the experience.

Adjustments for Dietary Preferences

If you are looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Additionally, if you would like to make these bars dairy-free, you can use a vegan butter alternative to replace the butter.

FAQs

What can I do if the dish isn’t turning out right?

If your Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are not turning out as expected, consider the baking time and temperature. It could be that they need a bit more time in the oven or that the oven temperature was off. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

If the filling is runny, it might have needed to cook longer, or the pecans were not properly mixed in, leading to unevenness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for parties and gatherings. You can prepare them a day in advance and simply store them in an airtight container at room temperature until you are ready to serve.

What can I substitute for ingredients?

For most ingredients, substitutes are available. If you run out of brown sugar, you can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses to mimic the flavor. For corn syrup, consider using maple syrup or honey as alternatives, depending on your taste and preference. Always keep in mind that substitutions can change the flavor slightly, so choose alternatives that suit your taste buds.

Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars are not just a dessert; they are a delicious experience that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With their rich flavor and easy preparation, these bars will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Enjoy making, serving, and sharing these delightful treats with loved ones!

Print