Easy Pecan Pie Bars
- Shortbread:
- 2 cups all purpose flour
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
- 3/4 cup butter, cold
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- Pie filling:
- ¾ cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup maple syrup
- ¾ cup butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon bourbon
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 3½ cups chopped pecans
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly coat with nonstick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, powdered sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt. Grate the cold butter directly into the dry ingredients, then use clean hands to work the butter in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake the crust for 20 minutes, or until set and just beginning to brown around the edges. Remove from the oven and set aside while you make the filling.
- In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, maple syrup, butter, cream, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the bourbon (if using), vanilla extract, and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Pour the hot filling over the warm crust, spreading evenly. Return to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is bubbling and golden brown.
- Let the bars cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.