Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

There’s something magical about biting into a slice of warm pecan pie—gooey, rich, and nutty with that unmistakable buttery crunch. But what if you could have all that irresistible flavor without the fuss of rolling out pie dough or spending hours in the kitchen? Enter: Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars.

Perfect for cozy autumn evenings, last-minute holiday gatherings, or even those unexpected sweet cravings on a random Tuesday night, these easy-to-make dessert bars are everything you love about classic pecan pie—but simplified. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is virtually foolproof and oh-so-satisfying.

Inspired by southern traditions and fueled by the need for something sweet (without the need for a rolling pin), these bars deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort. You’ll only need about 10 minutes of prep time, and the result is a batch of buttery, nutty, caramelized delights that are perfect for sharing—or hoarding. We won’t judge.

Why You’ll Love Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

✅ Easy Ingredients You Already Have

This recipe calls for pantry staples like flour, butter, eggs, and brown sugar. You won’t need any obscure baking tools or specialty items—just your hands, a bowl, and a 9×9-inch baking dish.

✅ No Pie Dough Required

Traditional pecan pie can be intimidating thanks to the delicate crust. With these bars, the buttery shortbread base is pressed into the pan—no rolling, chilling, or crimping necessary.

✅ Fast and Foolproof

With just 10 minutes of prep and 40 minutes in the oven, these pecan bars are ideal for last-minute dessert emergencies or when you’re short on time but still want something homemade and decadent.

✅ Holiday and Potluck Approved

Bringing a tray of these to a potluck? Expect zero leftovers. Hosting Thanksgiving? These bars are the easiest way to offer a traditional dessert without adding stress to your menu.

The Story Behind the Recipe

Every Southern family has their pecan pie recipe—passed down from grandma’s yellowed recipe cards or scribbled in the margins of an old church cookbook. But let’s be honest: we don’t always have the energy to make a full pie from scratch.

These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars were born out of one of those moments—when I wanted the flavors of my grandmother’s famous pecan pie without the hours of work. After a little experimenting (and a few taste tests!), this recipe was born: the same rich, nutty flavor, a buttery crust, and a fraction of the effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up a batch of Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars. Chances are, it’s already in your kitchen:

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

For the Filling:

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

💡 Tip: Toast the pecans for a few minutes in a dry skillet before chopping them. It brings out an even deeper, nuttier flavor!

How to Make Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Mix until a soft dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of your prepared baking dish. This forms the buttery shortbread-style crust.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. The crust should be slightly golden but not fully baked through—it’ll finish baking with the filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While the crust is baking, whisk together in a separate bowl:

  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Once smooth, stir in the chopped pecans.

Step 5: Assemble the Bars

Pour the pecan filling over the hot crust and spread it evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Final Bake

Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set. The center should not jiggle.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting into 12 squares. This helps the filling firm up and makes slicing cleaner.

Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars: Recipe Summary

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 12 bars

These bars are best served slightly warm or at room temperature. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a next-level dessert experience.

Tips for Success

✅ Use Room Temperature Eggs

Cold eggs can cause the filling to mix unevenly. Let them sit out for a few minutes before cracking them into the bowl.

✅ Don’t Overbake

Keep an eye on the bars during the final bake. You want the top to be set and golden but not overly browned. Overbaking will make the bars too firm and chewy.

✅ Cool Completely Before Slicing

Patience is key. If you cut them too early, the filling may be too soft and won’t hold together well.

Flavor Variations and Creative Twists

Want to switch things up? Try one of these delicious variations:

  • Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted dark or semi-sweet chocolate over the top.
  • Maple Pecan Bars: Replace 1/4 cup of the brown sugar with maple syrup for a sweet twist.
  • Coconut-Pecan Delight: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
  • Spiced Bars: Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for a warm, cozy vibe.

Storage and Freezing Tips

To Store:

Place the cooled bars in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To Freeze:

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a quick treat.

Serving Ideas for Every Occasion

Whether you’re whipping these up for a casual treat or a festive gathering, here are some ways to serve Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars:

  • Holiday Dessert Platter: Add these to a holiday cookie tray alongside other easy favorites like brownies and blondies.
  • Tea Party Treats: Serve with coffee, tea, or mulled cider for an afternoon pick-me-up.
  • Picnic-Ready: These bars travel well—just pack them in parchment and take them on the go.
  • Late-Night Sweet Tooth Fix: Warm a square in the microwave and top with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.

Why These Bars Are Going Viral

If TikTok and Instagram have taught us anything, it’s that easy, delicious, photogenic desserts are internet gold. Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars check every box:

  • Gooey center ✅
  • Crispy edges ✅
  • Minimal effort ✅
  • Totally drool-worthy ✅

Post a picture of your finished bars with a drizzle of chocolate or a scoop of ice cream, and just watch the likes roll in. #LazyGirlBaking #PecanPieBars

Final Thoughts: Treat Yourself (The Lazy Way)

Dessert doesn’t have to mean stress, dishes, and hours in the kitchen. These Lazy Girl Pecan Pie Bars are proof that with a few simple ingredients and a dash of southern inspiration, you can bake something that’s equal parts comforting, delicious, and totally irresistible.

So go ahead—throw on your favorite playlist, grab a mixing bowl, and treat yourself. Because every girl (lazy or not) deserves a slice of something sweet.

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