Can I make pecan pie bars ahead of time?

Absolutely. These maple pecan pie bars are actually better the next day once the flavors have had time to settle and the filling has firmed up. Bake them the night before your event, let them cool completely, then cover and refrigerate overnight. They’ll slice like a dream and taste even richer.

Do I need to refrigerate pecan pie bars?

Yes, especially if you're not serving them the same day. While they can sit out at room temperature for a few hours, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator keeps them fresh and safe for up to 5 days. Just let them come to room temp before serving, or enjoy them slightly chilled for a firmer texture.

What’s the best way to cut pecan pie bars cleanly?

Cool the bars completely, even refrigerate them for 30–60 minutes before slicing. Use a long, sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts. For ultra-neat squares, gently lift the whole block out using the parchment overhang and use a ruler for even pieces.

Can I freeze these pecan pie bars?

Yes, they freeze beautifully. Once cooled, slice and wrap each bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or at room temp for about 1 hour before serving.

Salted Maple Pecan Pie Bars: Simple & Amazing Fall Treat

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup brown sugar

1/2 tsp salt

3 eggs

3/4 cup pure maple syrup

1/2 cup brown sugar

2 tbsp flour

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups chopped pecans

Flaky sea salt for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13 pan with parchment.

2. Mix flour, brown sugar, and salt for crust. Add butter and combine.

3. Press crust mixture into pan. Bake for 15–18 minutes.

4. Whisk eggs, maple syrup, sugar, flour, vanilla until smooth.

5. Stir in chopped pecans.

6. Pour over hot crust. Bake for 30–35 minutes.

7. Cool completely. Sprinkle with flaky salt.

8. Lift from pan and cut into squares.

Notes

Toast pecans for added flavor.

Chill bars before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Store in fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 2 months.

Author: Chef Saly
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 290
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 65mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 45mg