Joanna Gaines Pecan Bars Recipe

This Joanna Gaines Pecan Bars Recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delicious and sweet dessert. In this article, I will show you all you need to know about Pecan Bars.

What Are Pecan Bars?

Pecan bars are a type of dessert that combines the rich, sweet flavors of a traditional pecan pie with the convenience and portability of a cookie bar. Pecan bars Made with a buttery crust and a sweet, nutty filling, they are a popular choice for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and everyday treats.

What Are The Other Names Of Pecan Bars?

Pecan bars, which can also be called pecan pie bars, pecan squares, or pecan pie squares. The name of Pecan Bars change depending on the recipe or regional vernacular.

How To Choose The Best Pecans For Pecan Bars Recipe

Here are four key factors to keep in mind while you choosing Pecans For Pecan Bars:

1. Freshness: Pecans should be fresh for the best flavor. You can often tell a pecan is fresh by its weight – it should feel heavy for its size.
2. No Cracks or Holes: The shells should be intact, without any cracks or holes. Damaged shells can indicate that the nuts inside are also damaged or possibly infested with insects.
3. Size: While the size of the pecans doesn’t necessarily affect the taste, it can affect the texture of your pecan bars. Larger pecans can provide a more substantial bite, while smaller ones will blend more into the filling.
4. Type of Pecans: There are many varieties of pecans, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some are sweeter, while others have a more robust nutty flavor. The type of pecan you choose can subtly affect the overall taste of your pecan bars.

Joanna Gaines Pecan Bars Ingredients

Crust Ingredients:

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
• 1 cup of unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt

Filling Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 1 cup of light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup of honey
• 2 tablespoons of heavy cream
• 2 cups of chopped pecans

How To Prepare The Crust For Pecan Pie Bars

To prepare the crust for pecan pie bars, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of powdered sugar, 1 cup of cold, diced unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

Mix until the ingredients come together to form a dough. Press this dough evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden.

How To Prepare The Filling For Pecan Pie Bars

While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of light brown sugar, 1/2 cup of honey, and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of chopped pecans.

How To Make Joanna Gaines Pecan Bars

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust as described above and bake for 20 minutes.
3. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling.
4. Once the crust is done, pour the filling over the hot crust.
5. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.

How Do You Know When Pecan Pie Bars Are Done?

You’ll know your pecan pie bars are done when the filling is set and no longer jiggles when you gently shake the pan. The filling should also be bubbling around the edges and the crust should be lightly browned. This usually takes around 20-25 minutes at 350°F.

How To Make Pecan Bars Ahead Of Time

Yes, you can prepare the Pecan Bars’ fillings and crust 24 hours in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake them the next day.

Do Pecan Bars Need To Be Refrigerated?

Yes, it is recommended to refrigerate Pecan Bars because they taste better when they are cold. After baking, let them cool for 30 minutes, and then place them in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.

How Long Do Pecan Bars Last In The Fridge

Pecan bars can last in the fridge for up to 7 days if stored properly. To ensure their freshness, cover each individual bar with plastic wrap. This method prevents them from sticking to each other. It is also recommended to store the pecan bars without the syrup coating to maintain their texture.

Can I Freeze Pecan Bars

Yes, you can freeze pecan bars. To freeze, allow the bars to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How To Defrost Frozen Pecan Bars

To defrost frozen pecan bars, remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature. This should take about 2-3 hours for Frozen Pecan Bars to completely defrosted. Don’t thow them in the microwave.

7 Things To Serve With Pecan Bars

1. Vanilla ice cream
2. Whipped cream
3. Fresh berries
4. Caramel sauce
5. Chocolate sauce
6. Coffee or espresso
7. Dessert wine or bourbon

Can I Use Light Corn Syrup Instead of Dark in Pecan Bars?

Yes, light corn syrup can be used in place of dark in pecan bars if that’s what you have available. The choice between light and dark corn syrup can subtly affect the flavor of your pecan bars, with dark corn syrup providing a more robust, caramel-like flavor.

Can I Make Pecan Bars with Gluten-Free Flour?

Yes, if you’re catering to dietary restrictions, know that pecan bars can also be made with gluten-free flour. Just ensure that the blend you use is suitable for baking.

What Type and Size of Pan Should I Use for Pecan Bars?

While a 13×9-inch pan is typically suggested for baking pecan bars, an 8” x 12” glass pan has also been used successfully. However, keep in mind that using a different pan size may alter the baking time and thickness of the bars.

Can I Serve Pecan Bars Warm?

Yes, once your pecan bars are baked, you have options for serving. While the recipe suggests refrigerating the bars before serving, they can also be enjoyed warm for a softer and gooier middle filling layer.

What Should I Do If The Filling of My Pecan Bars Doesn’t Set Properly?

If you run into issues with the filling of your pecan bars not setting properly, ensure that it’s cooked at the right temperature and for the correct amount of time. It’s also important to let the bars cool completely as the filling continues to set during the cooling process.

Joanna Gaines Pecan Bars Recipe Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving

• Calories 294
• Total Fat 17g
• Saturated Fat 8.2g
• Cholesterol 3.3mg
• Sodium 198mg
• Potassium 66mg
• Total Carbohydrate 32g
• Dietary Fiber 0.8g
• Sugars 17g
• Protein 2.9g
• Vitamin A 0%
• Vitamin C 0.3%
• Calcium 9.2%
• Iron 4.9%

Try Other Joanna Gaines Dessert Recipes:

• Joanna Gaines Banana Pudding
• Joanna Gaines Whipped Cream
• Joanna Gaines Pie Crust Recipe