If you’re craving something sweet, nutty, and perfectly spiced for the holidays (or any cozy afternoon), Spiced Pecan Bars are your answer! They’re buttery, chewy, and bursting with warm cinnamon and nutmeg — think of them as a cross between pecan pie and shortbread cookies. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to share.
Why You’ll Love These Bars
Before we jump in, let’s talk about why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking lineup:
- Flavor-packed: Loaded with brown sugar, pecans, and warm spices.
- Perfect texture: A buttery crust with a gooey, nutty topping.
- Make-ahead friendly: They stay fresh for days — ideal for gifting or holiday trays.
- Effortless: No rolling, chilling, or complicated pie crusts needed.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need for both the crust and topping:
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Topping
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 cups chopped pecans
Step 2: Make the Buttery Base
This crust is the foundation of your bars — crumbly yet firm enough to hold the rich topping.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
- Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the pan to form a crust.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Step 3: Prepare the Spiced Pecan Filling
While the crust is baking, it’s time to make that irresistible caramel-like topping.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, honey, and butter.
- Stir until melted and bubbly (about 3–4 minutes).
- Remove from heat and whisk in cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Fold in the chopped pecans until fully coated.
The aroma at this stage is pure magic — sweet, nutty, and spicy!
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the warm crust.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is bubbling and slightly thickened.
- Let it cool completely in the pan — this helps the bars set perfectly before slicing.
Tip: For clean edges, chill the pan for 30 minutes before cutting into squares.
Step 5: Serve and Store
Cut into small squares or rectangles, depending on how indulgent you’re feeling.
Serving ideas:
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
- Pair with a cup of spiced tea or hot coffee.
- Wrap individually for homemade holiday gifts.
Storage tip: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
These Spiced Pecan Bars are everything you love about fall flavors — buttery, nutty, and kissed with cinnamon warmth. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or your own cozy night in, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
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