Description
These Joanna Gaines-inspired pecan bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with a gooey, caramelized pecan topping for the ultimate Southern-style treat. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy dessert at home.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
- Cream together butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add flour and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 18–20 minutes until lightly golden.
- While the crust bakes, whisk brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla in a bowl. Fold in pecan halves.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the hot crust and return to the oven. Bake for another 25–30 minutes until the center is just set.
- Let cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for 1–2 hours before slicing.
- Remove from the pan using parchment, slice into squares, and serve.
Notes
- Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean edges.
- Let the bars cool completely to ensure clean slices.
- Toasted pecans add a deeper flavor.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 21g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg