There’s something truly delightful about the moments when sweet nostalgia meets modern indulgence. As I pulled my decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars from the oven, the aroma of caramelized sugar and melted chocolate wrapped around my kitchen like a warm hug. This dish came about one rainy afternoon when I craved something sweet yet simple, and boy, did it hit the spot!
These bars blend the gooey richness of traditional pecan pie with a golden buttery crust and the perfect crunch of toasted pecans, punctuated by melting chocolate chips. With just 15 minutes of prep and an hour total to bring this sweet masterpiece to life, they make an irresistible treat for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy to whip up—because everybody deserves a little sweetness in their day!
Why are these Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars irresistible?
Nostalgic flavors blend seamlessly with modern indulgence, making each bite a sweet trip down memory lane. Simple prep means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with loved ones. Versatile serving options allow for warm bars topped with ice cream, or chilled squares for an elegant treat. Quick to bake, these bars can be your go-to dessert for unexpected guests or planned celebrations alike. You could even try making them alongside delicious Decadent Chocolate Cheesecake for an unforgettable dessert spread!
Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars Ingredients
• Dive right into the delightful ingredients that make these bars a cherished treat!
For the Crust
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for a perfect base; gluten-free flour is a great substitute.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust; swap it out for coconut sugar if you prefer a less processed option.
- Unsalted Butter (softened) – Binds crust ingredients together for richness; vegan butter works fine for a dairy-free treat.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; feel free to omit if you’re using salted butter.
For the Filling
- Light Corn Syrup – Adds that necessary gooeyness to the filling; honey or maple syrup are good alternatives but will change the taste.
- Brown Sugar (packed) – Contributes deep sweetness and moisture; coconut sugar can be substituted for a different flavor profile.
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – Enriches the filling and helps bind ingredients; coconut oil is a terrific dairy-free option.
- Large Eggs – Provide structure and help set the filling; for a vegan alternative, use flax seeds mixed with water.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates all flavors; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
- Chopped Pecans – Offers a traditional pecan flavor with crunch; walnuts can be used for a different texture.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds sweetness and a melty texture; dark chocolate options are perfect for a richer taste.
Enjoy gathering these ingredients to create your decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars that promise delightful moments for you and your loved ones!
How to Make Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars
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Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s hot and ready for baking. Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until the mixture is crumbly and holds together when pressed—about 2-3 minutes. Firmly press the crust mixture into the bottom of the pan and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring everything is evenly combined and beautiful.
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Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared filling over the baked crust, spreading it evenly across the surface. Bake for another 20-25 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly puffy.
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Cut and Serve: Once baked, allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. Carefully lift the bars out using the parchment paper (if used), slice into squares, and enjoy! Best served warm or chilled for an elegant treat.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars
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Press Evenly: Ensure the crust is pressed evenly into the pan to prevent any burning or uneven baking.
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Cool Properly: Allow the filling to set completely before cutting. This ensures you get neat, appetizing squares, making your bars look as good as they taste.
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Use Parchment Paper: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This prevents any sticking and keeps your decadent bars intact.
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Watch Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the bars during the last few minutes of baking. Every oven is different, and you want to avoid overbaking to maintain their gooey texture.
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Store Wisely: For freshness, store your decadent chocolate chip pecan pie bars in an airtight container. They’ll keep beautifully at room temperature for up to 3 days!
Make Ahead Options
These Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the crust up to 24 hours in advance; simply press it into the baking pan, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain its freshness. You can also mix the filling ingredients and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge; this keeps everything flavorful and ready to go. When you’re ready to bake, pour the filling over the crust, and bake as directed. This not only saves time but ensures your bars turn out just as delicious!
What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars?
Create a delightful dessert experience with complementary treats that harmonize beautifully with rich flavors and textures.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness balances the warm, gooey bars, enhancing the delightful flavor combination. A classic choice!
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Whipped Cream: Fluffy and light, it adds a lovely touch that contrasts the chewy texture of the bars while highlighting their sweetness.
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Coffee: A robust cup enhances the chocolate and nutty flavors, making every bite feel like a warm hug on a rainy day. Perfect for gatherings!
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling more chocolate over the bars amplifies their sweetness, creating an indulgent experience everyone will savor.
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Chopped Nuts: Scatter additional toasted pecans over your serving for an extra crunch that adds texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
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Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries offer a bright, tart counterpoint, balancing the dessert’s sweetness while adding a pop of color.
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Dessert Wine: A sweet dessert wine brings out the complex flavors of the bars, making for a sophisticated pairing that’s perfect for special occasions.
Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars Variations
Embrace your creativity and make these bars truly your own with delightful twists and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a deliciously inclusive treat.
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Vegan Delight: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) in place of large eggs, and swap butter for vegan butter or coconut oil.
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Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch without the nuts.
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Flavor Boost: Add 1 teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the filling for a rich, coffee-infused flavor profile.
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Fruit Fusion: Mix in 1/2 cup of dried cherries or cranberries for a fruity twist that complements the pecans beautifully.
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Extra Chocolate: Switch semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks to create an indulgent, richer flavor experience.
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Sweet-Salty Harmony: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking to elevate the contrast between sweet and salty, enhancing every bite.
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Cinnamon Twist: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the filling for a warm flavor that suits the cozy vibe of these bars.
How to Store and Freeze Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent drying out.
Fridge: For longer shelf life, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week, keeping the bars nice and cool.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to freeze decadent chocolate chip pecan pie bars for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before enjoying again.
Reheating: If desired, gently reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge!
Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars Recipe FAQs
What type of pecans should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, chopped pecans for the best texture and flavor. Look for pecans that are plump and free from dark spots. If you can’t find pecans, walnuts can be a great alternative, providing a different but delightful crunch!
How should I store leftover bars?
Very simply! To keep your decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their lifespan, refrigerating them will keep them good for up to a week!
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What if my filling doesn’t set properly?
If your filling is still gooey after baking, it might need a little more time in the oven. Depending on your oven, try increasing the baking time by 5-minute intervals. Make sure to check for a slightly puffed and set center before removing them. Also, letting the bars cool completely in the pan allows the filling to firm up better.
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! If anyone has nut allergies, be sure to substitute the pecans with seeds like sunflower seeds or oats for added texture. For gluten-free options, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend! Always check ingredients for potential allergens, especially if serving at gatherings.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, you can! I often prepare my decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars a day in advance. Simply bake, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will be just as delicious the next day, and the flavors can even meld together beautifully!
Indulgent Decadent Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie Bars to Savor
Equipment
- 8x8-inch baking pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour is a great substitute.
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Swap for coconut sugar for less processed option.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened) Vegan butter works for a dairy-free option.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt Omit if using salted butter.
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup Light Corn Syrup Honey or maple syrup are alternatives.
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (packed) Coconut sugar can be substituted.
- 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (melted) Coconut oil is a dairy-free option.
- 2 large Eggs Flax seeds mixed with water can be a vegan alternative.
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Opt for pure vanilla for best results.
- 1 cup Chopped Pecans Walnuts can be used for a different texture.
- 1 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips Dark chocolate options are great for a richer taste.
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until crumbly, about 2-3 minutes. Firmly press into the bottom of the pan and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together light corn syrup, packed brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in chopped pecans and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared filling over the baked crust and bake for another 20-25 minutes or until set and slightly puffy.
- Cut and Serve: Allow to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. Lift out using parchment paper, slice into squares, and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
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