Texas Pecan Handheld Pie Bars Recipe

Ingredients and Preparation

Pie Crust

• 1 ½ sticks of butter
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Combine all ingredients in a food processor until the mixture forms small crumbles. If you don't have a food processor, a hand-held mixer works just as well.
3. Press the dough mixture into an ungreased 12x12 inch baking pan until it is uniform and flat.
4. Bake for about 20 minutes, turning the pan 180 degrees halfway through to ensure even cooking. The crust should be golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.

Texas Pecan Filling

• 2 cups crushed shelled pecans
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• ⅓ cup Karo Syrup

Instructions:

1. Grind the pecans if they are not already crushed.
2. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
3. Stir in the brown sugar and Karo Syrup. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the pecans, ensuring they are fully coated with the sugary mixture. Remove from heat.
5. Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes.

Final Steps

1. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting them into approximately 24 pieces. This step is crucial to prevent the filling from running out and the bars from becoming dry.

Chef's Note

Chef Shelley Pogue, a Cum Laude graduate from Le Cordon Bleu and Executive Research and Development Chef at Vertical Sales and Marketing in San Ramon, CA, brings you this delightful recipe. Shelley is also the desserts editor for BellaOnline.com.

Interesting Facts and Stats

• Pecans are native to North America, with Texas being one of the largest producers. In 2020, Texas produced over 40 million pounds of pecans (source).
• Pecans are rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. A single ounce of pecans provides 10% of the daily recommended intake of fiber (source).
• The Karo Syrup used in this recipe is a type of corn syrup that has been a staple in American kitchens since the early 20th century. It helps to create a smooth, glossy texture in the filling (source).

Conclusion

These Texas pecan handheld pie bars are a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with a rich, nutty filling. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, they are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the taste of Texas in every bite!

Article Source: EzineArticles