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Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars

Rich, nutty, and utterly addictive Brown Butter Pecan Pie Bars with a buttery crust and sticky pecan filling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cut into 16 pieces
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 3 cups chopped pecans
  • Optional: flaky sea salt or coarse sea salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. Melt the 1 cup of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat until browned.
  3. Combine the browned butter with granulated sugar, water, vanilla extract, and salt, whisking until smooth.
  4. Add the flour and cornstarch, mix until combined, and press into the prepared pan.
  5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes until set and slightly golden.
  6. In the same skillet, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream, stirring until melted and glossy.
  7. Remove from heat and whisk in beaten eggs and chopped pecans.
  8. Pour the filling over the crust, spreading evenly and sprinkle with optional sea salt.
  9. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes until set around the edges and slightly jiggly in the center.
  10. Cool completely, lift out from the pan, and cut into squares.

Notes

Brown the butter slowly to avoid burning. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: brown butter, pecan pie bars, dessert, holiday baking, traybake