Utterly the best! My Southern nana would have been proud of these!

Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful treat that melds the flavors of a classic pecan pie into easy-to-eat bar form. This dessert is perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night at home. The buttery crust combined with the rich, gooey pecan topping makes this recipe a hit with both kids and adults. It's a wonderful way to enjoy a beloved dessert without the need for a fork and plate.

These Gooey Pecan Pie Bars pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a complete dessert spread, consider serving them alongside fresh berries or a warm apple cider. They also make a lovely addition to a holiday dessert table or can be packed up for a sweet treat on a picnic.

Servings: 12

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
3/4 cup light corn syrup
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking pan.

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, softened butter, and granulated sugar until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until it’s golden brown.

While the crust is baking, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until well combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.

Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden on top.

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to slice.

For a little extra flavor, you can add a splash of bourbon to the pecan mixture, or try using dark corn syrup for a deeper, richer taste. If you have chocolate lovers in the family, sprinkle a handful of chocolate chips on top of the pecan filling before baking. For those with nut allergies, substitute the pecans with roughly chopped pretzels or sunflower seeds for a similarly satisfying crunch.