Maple Pecan Bars with Shortbread Crust

Introduction

Maple Pecan Bars with Shortbread Crust are a delightful, sweet, and nutty dessert that captures the essence of fall. These bars feature a buttery, tender shortbread base topped with a rich, gooey maple-pecan filling, making them irresistible for anyone who loves the combination of nuts and natural sweetness.

The shortbread crust provides a firm, yet melt-in-your-mouth foundation, while the topping balances the richness of butter with the deep, earthy flavor of maple syrup and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. These bars are perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday treats, or as an elegant dessert for afternoon tea. Their rustic appearance and comforting flavors make them a must-have for your dessert rotation.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it perfectly balances textures and flavors. The crisp, buttery shortbread crust complements the gooey, nutty maple topping, and the toasted pecans add a satisfying crunch. Maple syrup provides a rich, natural sweetness that feels indulgent but not overly sugary.

These bars are versatile—they can be served warm or at room temperature, cut into squares for snacks, or plated as a dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. They’re elegant enough to impress guests, yet simple enough to make on a weeknight or for a bake sale.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Perfect balance: Crunchy crust, gooey topping, and toasted nuts in every bite.
• Rich, comforting flavors: Deep maple syrup combined with butter and pecans.
• Seasonal favorite: Ideal for fall and holiday desserts.
• Easy to slice and serve: Bars are more practical than pies.
• Versatile: Great for gifts, parties, or casual family treats.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 30–35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 15–20 minutes
• Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes

Servings and Nutrition

• Servings: 16 bars
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American / Fall-inspired

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Maple Pecan Topping:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• ¾ cup pure maple syrup
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups pecans, coarsely chopped
• Pinch of salt

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation Method:

1. Prepare the crust
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Mix in vanilla extract.
   • Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
   • Press dough evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
   • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
2. Prepare the topping
   • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
   • Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and flour until smooth.
   • Fold in chopped pecans and a pinch of salt.
3. Assemble and bake
   • Pour the maple-pecan mixture evenly over the baked shortbread crust.
   • Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the topping is set and lightly golden.
4. Cool and cut
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan (about 15–20 minutes).
   • Cut into 16 squares and serve.

How to Serve

• Serve at room temperature or slightly warm for gooier bars.
• Optional: drizzle with extra maple syrup or a thin glaze of powdered sugar and milk.
• Pair with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Recipe Tips

• Use good-quality pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Toast pecans lightly in a dry pan for an extra nutty aroma before adding to the topping.
• Let the bars cool completely for cleaner slicing.
• Press the shortbread crust firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling.
• For a richer taste, use browned butter in the crust or topping.

Variations

• Chocolate Maple Pecan Bars: Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the topping before baking.
• Salted Maple Bars: Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top after baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Mini Bars: Use a muffin tin for individual portions, baking slightly less time.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in the crust.
• Nut-Free: Replace pecans with toasted sunflower seeds or omit entirely for allergy-friendly bars.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individually or in portions and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thawing: Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan for topping
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife for slicing

FAQ

Q: Can I use light or dark maple syrup?
Yes, both work; dark maple syrup gives a richer, more robust flavor.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely, these bars hold well at room temperature or refrigerated for several days.

Q: Can I use other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans.

Q: Can these be made vegan?
Yes, use vegan butter, a flax egg substitute, and maple syrup instead of honey (if any).

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Bars with Shortbread Crust are a perfect combination of buttery, nutty, and sweet flavors. With a crisp shortbread base, gooey maple-pecan topping, and a touch of autumnal warmth, these bars are ideal for fall gatherings, holiday treats, or cozy evenings at home. They are simple to prepare yet elegant in presentation, making them a must-try dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family alike.