Southern pecan pie bars are a beloved treat that's perfect for family gatherings and holiday celebrations. Rooted in the traditional Midwestern love for hearty, comforting desserts, these bars carry the warmth and richness of pecan pie, but in a more manageable, bar form. Making them connects us to the old days when every baking session was a cherished event, filling the house with sweet aromas and bringing smiles to loved ones. These bars are a tribute to our grandmothers who perfected the art of simple, yet irresistible treats.

These pecan pie bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a delightful contrast, serve them alongside a tart cranberry sauce or a fresh fruit salad. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert spread, mingling wonderfully with other fall treats such as pumpkin pie and apple crisp.

Servings: 12

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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish and set aside.

In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter to form a crumbly dough.

Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden.

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, corn syrup, granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly combined.

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

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown.

Allow to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting into bars and serving.

For a richer flavor, you can use dark corn syrup instead of light, or try a mixture of both. Adding a splash of bourbon to the filling can give these bars a delightful Southern twist. For a fun variation, sprinkle some chocolate chips over the crust before pouring the pecan topping. These bars also keep well, so make them a day ahead for even more convenience.

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