Deserts

Maple Pecan Bars with Shortbread Crust

Name: Maple Pecan Bars with Shortbread Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 16
Ingredients: ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ¼ tsp salt; ¾ cup pure maple syrup; ½ cup packed brown sugar; ⅓ cup unsalted butter; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups chopped pecans

Servings: 16 Total Time: 1 hr Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Maple Pecan Bars with Shortbread Crust are the perfect bite-sized alternative to a pecan pie. With a buttery shortbread crust as the base, these bars are topped with a gooey, nutty maple pecan filling that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, rich, and crunchy. They’re easier to make than a pie, easier to serve, and just as indulgent.

This recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a decadent dessert that’s ideal for holidays, potlucks, bake sales, or anytime you crave something sweet and nutty. Unlike traditional pecan pie, the maple syrup adds a deep, earthy sweetness that elevates the flavor and complements the buttery crust beautifully.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines my two favorite dessert textures: a crumbly, buttery shortbread base and a chewy, nutty caramel-like topping. The maple syrup gives these bars a unique flavor that’s richer than corn syrup–based pecan desserts, making them feel extra special. They’re also incredibly versatile: you can cut them into neat squares for an elegant dessert tray, or keep them rustic and casual for family gatherings.

Most importantly, they taste just as good the next day (if not better), which means I can make them ahead of time without stress. It’s one of those recipes that’s impressive enough to wow guests but simple enough for everyday baking.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

A twist on tradition – pecan pie flavor but in an easy-to-eat bar form.
Perfect balance – buttery crust + gooey filling + crunchy pecans.
Maple magic – adds depth and warmth that makes it more unique than standard pecan desserts.
Crowd-pleaser – ideal for parties, holidays, and gifting.
Make-ahead friendly – holds up beautifully for several days or can be frozen for later.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 16 bars
Calories (per bar): ~280 kcal
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert / Snack

Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt

For the Maple Pecan Filling:

¾ cup pure maple syrup
½ cup packed brown sugar
⅓ cup unsalted butter
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups chopped pecans

Quick Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Make shortbread crust: cream butter and sugar, add flour and salt, press into pan. Bake 15 minutes.
Make filling: simmer maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and cream until bubbly. Stir in vanilla and pecans.
Pour filling over baked crust. Bake 20–25 minutes.
Cool completely, cut into bars, and enjoy.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

In a large bowl, cream softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add flour and salt, mixing until crumbly dough forms.
Press dough evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Maple Pecan Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and cream.
Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring often. Simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and pecans.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Pour filling evenly over baked crust.
Bake 20–25 minutes, until filling is set but slightly soft in the center.

Step 5: Cool and Cut

Cool completely on a wire rack, at least 2 hours.
Use parchment overhang to lift bars from the pan. Cut into 16 squares.

How to Serve

Serve at room temperature on a dessert platter.
Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Pair with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Additional Tips

Use pure maple syrup (not pancake syrup) for best flavor.
Toast pecans before adding for extra crunch and depth.
Don’t skip cooling time—cutting too early will make them messy.
A serrated knife makes for cleaner cuts.

Variations

Chocolate Maple Pecan Bars: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the filling.
Bourbon Pecan Bars: Stir 1 tbsp bourbon into the filling for a grown-up twist.
Nut Mix: Replace half the pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts.
Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend for the crust.

Freezing & Storage

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Freezing: Wrap bars individually in parchment and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

9×13-inch baking pan
Parchment paper
Electric mixer (for crust)
Saucepan (for filling)
Serrated knife (for clean cuts)

Conclusion

Maple Pecan Bars with Shortbread Crust are the ultimate dessert for nut lovers and anyone who craves a sweet treat with a touch of elegance. They’re easier than pie, travel well, and deliver layers of buttery, nutty, and maple-kissed flavor in every bite. Whether you serve them for the holidays, at a party, or as a special weekday indulgence, these bars are guaranteed to impress and become a new favorite.

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