Who says you have to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a mouthwatering dessert? Not me! Introducing Lazy Pecan Pie Bars – the perfect treat for anyone craving that classic Southern pecan pie flavor without the hassle of making a whole pie from scratch. These bars offer a shortcut to homemade goodness that will leave your taste buds and your guests wanting more.

Picture this: a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a gooey filling bursting with pecans. Just thinking about it makes your mouth water, doesn’t it? These bars are bound to be a hit at your next potluck or family get-together. Watch as they disappear within minutes!

Elevate the Indulgence

Lazy Pecan Pie Bars are already delicious on their own, but why not take them to the next level? Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an outstanding flavor combination that will transport you to dessert heaven. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can add a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce. Alternatively, pair them with a strong cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat. The choice is yours!

Servings: Makes about 16 bars

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/2 cup corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  2. Start with the crust. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and salt. Cut in the 1/2 cup of cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form a crust.
  3. Bake the crust for about 15 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth. Stir in the chopped pecans.
  5. Pour the pecan filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
  6. Return the pan to the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
  7. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before lifting them out using the parchment ‘handles’ and cutting them into squares.

Variations & Tips:

  • Get creative and mix in some chocolate chips or swap out half of the pecans for chopped walnuts to add a different nut profile.
  • For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.
  • These bars can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a couple of days. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them.
  • If you’re not a fan of corn syrup, you can substitute it with honey for a slightly different yet equally delicious flavor.

Now you have an easy-to-make recipe for Lazy Pecan Pie Bars that will impress your loved ones without breaking a sweat. Trust me, both your taste buds and your schedule will thank you. So go ahead, indulge and enjoy!

Bonus Recipe: Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak

There’s nothing quite like the savory aroma of a home-cooked meal wafting through your kitchen, especially when it involves classic comfort food. In this easy-to-follow recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps of creating mouthwatering Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak. Gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises both simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients:

For the Patties:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup minced onion
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper

For the Gravy:

  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 6 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1 package brown gravy mix
  • 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

Directions:

  1. Begin by mixing all the patty ingredients together and forming small patties approximately 3/4 inch thick.
  2. Create a cozy bed of sliced onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
  3. In a skillet, brown the steak patties on both sides. For an extra burst of flavor, we recommend this step, although you can place the raw patties directly into the slow cooker if you’re pressed for time.
  4. Place the browned patties on top of the onions and mushrooms in the slow cooker.
  5. Mix all the remaining ingredients (except cornstarch) to create a delectable sauce, then pour it over the meat and vegetables. Cover and let it simmer on low for 5 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
  6. After 5 hours, remove the patties. Turn the slow cooker to high, whisk in the cornstarch, and let the magic happen as the sauce thickens.
  7. Return the patties to the slow cooker, allowing them to soak up the rich sauce before serving.

Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Calories per Serving: 520 kcal (Servings: 4)

Indulge in this culinary creation that marries simplicity with incredible taste. Slow Cooker Salisbury Steak is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings the heart of your kitchen to life. Enjoy!