Buttery Pecan Shortbread Bars Recipe: Sweet Bliss in Every Bite

Delectable pecan shortbread bars capture the essence of sweet, buttery comfort with every single bite.

Nutty aromas waft through kitchens, promising pure indulgence.

Crisp edges and tender centers create a textural symphony that melts effortlessly.

Southern bakers know these treats represent more than just dessert, they’re a cherished tradition.

Crumbly shortbread provides a perfect canvas for rich, caramelized pecans.

Minimal ingredients and straightforward techniques mean you can whip up this delightful confection in no time.

Prepare to experience a slice of pure, sugary bliss that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients Needed for Pecan Shortbread Bars

• Butter: A rich, creamy ingredient that provides a smooth texture and delicious flavor to the shortbread bars.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender, crumbly texture in the shortbread.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its warm, aromatic profile.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the depth of the other ingredients.
• Cornstarch: Helps create a tender, delicate texture in the shortbread.

• All-Purpose Flour: The primary structure-building ingredient that gives the bars their classic shortbread consistency.

• Pecans: Toasted nuts that add a rich, nutty crunch and deep flavor to the shortbread bars.

• Nonstick Cooking Spray: Ensures easy removal of the bars from the baking pan.
• Foil: Helps with easy removal and clean cutting of the baked bars.

How to Bake Pecan Shortbread Bars Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Setup

Get your oven ready by heating it to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Enhance Pecan Flavor

Grab a skillet and toast the pecans over medium-low heat. Stir them frequently to prevent burning.

Let the pecans develop a rich, nutty aroma for 3-5 minutes, then set aside to cool completely.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend butter and sugar until they become smooth and creamy.

Pour in vanilla extract, sprinkle in salt, and add cornstarch. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined.

Step 4: Form the Shortbread Dough

Slowly incorporate flour into the mixture, stirring gently. Continue mixing until the dough starts to come together.

Fold in the cooled toasted pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape the Shortbread

Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan.

Use your hands or a spatula to press the dough evenly across the entire surface, creating a smooth, uniform layer.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the preheated oven.

For a softer texture, bake for 25-30 minutes. If you prefer a crunchier shortbread, extend the baking time to 35 minutes.

The edges should turn golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Cut

Remove the pan from the oven and let the shortbread cool completely at room temperature.

Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut into square or rectangular pieces.

Step 8: Store and Enjoy

Keep the pecan shortbread bars in an airtight container.

They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days at room temperature. For longer storage, place them in the freezer where they’ll maintain their deliciousness for up to 3 months.

Helpful Tips for Pecan Shortbread Bars Success

• Stir nuts constantly over medium-low heat to prevent burning and develop a rich, nutty flavor without scorching.
• Adjust baking time between 25-35 minutes to achieve soft or crunchy shortbread bars based on personal preference.
• Line pan with foil and use nonstick spray to ensure easy removal and clean cutting of bars.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or sea salt to the dough for a subtle flavor complexity that complements the pecans.
• Store in airtight container at room temperature for 4 days or freeze up to 3 months to enjoy fresh-tasting shortbread later.

Variations for Pecan Shortbread Bars

• Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars: Fold in semisweet chocolate chips with toasted pecans for a rich, decadent flavor profile that enhances the classic shortbread.
• Maple Glazed Pecan Bars: Drizzle a homemade maple glaze over cooled bars, creating a sweet and nutty finish that complements the buttery shortbread base.
• Salted Caramel Pecan Bars: Swirl salted caramel sauce on top of the baked bars, adding a luxurious layer of sweet and salty complexity to the traditional recipe.
• Espresso Pecan Bars: Mix finely ground espresso powder into the dough for a subtle coffee undertone that pairs beautifully with the toasted pecans.

What Goes Well With Pecan Shortbread Bars

• Pair Sweet Dessert Wine: Complement the rich, buttery pecan shortbread bars with a luscious late harvest Riesling or Sauternes. These sweet wines match the nutty, caramelized flavors and provide a delightful contrast to the dense, crumbly texture.
• Create Coffee Companion: Serve alongside a smooth, medium-roast Colombian coffee or a creamy cappuccino. The robust coffee cuts through the sweetness and enhances the toasted pecan notes, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
• Match Whiskey Moment: Select a smooth bourbon or aged scotch whiskey to elevate the dessert. The caramel undertones in whiskey beautifully highlight the nutty, buttery characteristics of the shortbread bars, offering a sophisticated tasting experience.

How to Store Pecan Shortbread Bars Properly

Store in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper for up to 5 days. Keep in the coolest section of the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup.

Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before serving.

Keep bars in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat. Consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and texture.

Warm bars gently in a preheated oven at 300F for 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore slight crispness without drying out the shortbread.

FAQs

• Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Ensure to toast the alternative nuts the same way for enhanced flavor.

• Do I need a stand mixer to make these shortbread bars?

No, you can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand with a wooden spoon. The key is to cream the butter and sugar until smooth and light.

• How fine should I chop the pecans?

You don’t need to chop them very fine. Roughly chopped or lightly broken pecans work best, as they provide nice texture and crunch throughout the shortbread bars.

Why Pecan Shortbread Bars Are So Popular

• Boost Flavor Instantly: Toasting pecans brings out their rich, nutty essence, creating a deeper and more complex taste profile that elevates these shortbread bars from ordinary to extraordinary.
• Master Quick Baking: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple techniques, making it an excellent choice for beginners and experienced home cooks alike.
• Customize Your Texture: Control the final result by adjusting baking time – choose soft and tender or crisp and crunchy bars based on your personal preference, offering a delightful flexibility that suits different palates.
• Enjoy Long-Lasting Treats: These bars store beautifully, maintaining their delicious quality for days in an airtight container or freezing wonderfully for future snacking, making them an ideal make-ahead dessert for busy households.

Pecan Shortbread Bars Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 16 1x

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Description

Crumbly, buttery pecan shortbread bars offer a delightful Southern-inspired dessert that melts in your mouth. Rich nutty flavors and delicate texture invite sweet moments of pure indulgence for anyone craving a classic homestyle treat.

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Ingredients

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Nuts:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) chopped pecans

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2/3 cup (134g) granulated sugar

Flavor Enhancers:

• 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a 9×13-inch pan by lining it with foil and coating with nonstick spray.
2. Gently toast pecans in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring continuously until fragrant and lightly golden, about 3-5 minutes. Set aside to cool completely.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whip butter and sugar until creamy and well-blended.
4. Incorporate vanilla extract, salt, and cornstarch into the butter mixture, mixing thoroughly.
5. Gradually fold in flour, stirring until the dough forms a cohesive texture.
6. Fold cooled, toasted pecans into the dough, distributing evenly throughout.
7. Transfer dough to prepared pan, using fingers or a spatula to press and spread evenly across the surface.
8. Bake for 25-35 minutes, adjusting time for desired texture – shorter for softer bars, longer for crunchier edges.
9. Remove from oven and let shortbread cool completely in the pan to ensure clean, crisp cutting.
10. Slice into square portions and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or freeze for extended preservation up to 3 months.

Notes

• Toast pecans carefully to enhance their nutty flavor without burning, stirring constantly and keeping heat at medium-low.
• shorter for soft, chewy bars or longer for crisp, crunchy edges.
• Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for variety, maintaining the same toasting and measurement techniques.
• Use gluten-free flour blend as a direct substitute to make these bars suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 16
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 7 g
• Sodium: 28 mg
• Fat: 16 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 13 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg