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Decadent Chocolate Pecan Squares

Indulge in Decadent Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars: Your Ultimate Holiday Dessert

As the holiday season draws near, the quest for the perfect dessert begins. Look no further! These easy-to-make Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on a beloved classic, offering all the rich, nutty goodness of traditional pecan pie with the added irresistible allure of chocolate, all in a convenient bar format. They are an absolute must-have for your holiday table this year, promising to be a crowd-pleasing treat that’s both elegant and wonderfully approachable. Forget the fuss of a full pie; these decadent bars are designed for effortless baking and joyous sharing, making them ideal for any festive gathering. If you’re a fan of the comforting flavors of pecan pie, be sure to explore more of our cherished recipes, including our Brown Sugar Pecan Pie, delightful Turtle Pecan Pie Bars, and charming Mini Chocolate Pecan Pies.

The Allure of Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars: Effortless Elegance for Your Holidays

This holiday season, we’re celebrating the perfect union of two beloved dessert components: rich chocolate and classic pecan pie, expertly combined into an irresistible bar form! The beauty of these Pecan Pie Bars lies in their incredible ease of preparation compared to a traditional pie. For anyone (and yes, that definitely includes me!) who struggles with crimping a perfect pie crust, these bars are a true lifesaver. Their forgiving nature and simple construction mean you can achieve a stunning, bakery-quality dessert without the usual stress, leaving you more time to enjoy the festivities.

Beyond their simplicity, pecan pie bars offer unparalleled convenience. They are inherently easy to serve and transport, making them the ultimate potluck contribution, family gathering dessert, or a delightful treat for office parties. No need for plates and forks; these hand-held wonders are perfect for mingling. Each bite delivers the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, the gooey sweetness of a classic pecan pie filling, and the luxurious depth of chocolate, all nestled atop a buttery, tender shortbread crust. This recipe truly takes the traditional holiday favorite to new heights, making it accessible and enjoyable for every baker.

A Culinary Collaboration: Inspired by a Beloved Baker

I am absolutely thrilled to share this amazing recipe with you today, and there’s a special reason why it’s so exciting: it comes straight from my dear friend Stephanie’s fantastic new cookbook – Blondies, Brownies, and Bars! I’ve been eagerly anticipating the release of her book ever since I first heard about it, because I knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that it was going to be nothing short of extraordinary. And you know what? It absolutely is! This cookbook is an essential addition to any baker’s collection and makes the perfect Christmas gift for anyone who loves baking or simply enjoys indulging in delicious treats. So, don’t hesitate – go order a copy (or two!) right now!

Stephanie’s book is brimming with an incredible array of mouth-watering brownies, blondies, and, you guessed it, BARS! There truly is something delightful in here for every taste and occasion. From comforting classics to innovative creations, each recipe is crafted with passion and precision. Just a glance through its pages reveals tantalizing options like rich Fluffernutter Chocolate Chip Blondies, the incredibly simple No Bake Oreo Peanut Butter Cheesecake Bars, and what I’m making next – the utterly decadent Hot Fudge Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Brownies. The variety is astounding, ensuring that you’ll never run out of exciting new desserts to try.

I had such a wonderful time browsing through her book, trying to pick just one recipe to make. In the end, I simply couldn’t decide on my own, so I enlisted the help of my boys! Their eyes lit up at the thought of these beautifully layered pie bars, and I wholeheartedly agreed with their choice. The combination of flavors and textures in these bars is truly captivating, promising a dessert experience that’s both familiar and exhilarating. It’s a testament to Stephanie’s talent that even seasoned bakers find her creations inspiring and her recipes approachable.

Why These Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars Will Be Your New Holiday Favorite

These Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are more than just a dessert; they are the ultimate decadent treat, and they will absolutely be gracing our table this holiday season. Their unparalleled richness and depth of flavor make them truly irresistible. The best part? They are SO incredibly easy to make, transforming potentially complex holiday baking into a joyful and straightforward process. Each bite is a symphony of textures – the crisp, buttery shortbread crust, the gooey, sweet chocolate pecan filling, and the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. It’s a treat that no one can resist, guaranteeing smiles and satisfied sighs from all your guests.

Imagine the aroma filling your home, inviting warmth and festive cheer. These bars aren’t just delicious; they embody the spirit of the holidays – generosity, comfort, and a touch of indulgence. They stand out as a dessert that feels special and luxurious, yet requires minimal effort, making them a perfect choice for busy hosts who want to impress without stress. Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any seasonal celebration, these bars are poised to become a cherished new tradition, eagerly anticipated year after year.

Elevate Your Holiday Table with These Easy Pecan Pie Bars

Beyond the simple preparation, the impressive presentation of these bars makes them a fantastic centerpiece for any dessert spread. Cut into neat squares or rectangles, they offer a sophisticated yet inviting appeal. They store wonderfully, meaning you can bake them in advance and enjoy them throughout your holiday celebrations, making party planning a breeze. Whether served alongside a warm cup of coffee, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or simply on their own, these Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are guaranteed to be a hit.

So, please, take a moment to go check out Stephanie’s “Brownies, Blondies, and Bars” book. Buy a copy for yourself and everyone you know who loves to bake or simply enjoys amazing desserts! You truly won’t regret adding this treasure to your kitchen. And while you’re there, don’t forget to order a copy of my own book too – it’s packed with even more delicious ideas to sweeten your life! These bars are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to create lasting memories and indulge in truly unforgettable flavors.

Essential Baking Tips for Perfect Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

Creating these delightful Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars is straightforward, but a few key tips can ensure they turn out absolutely perfect every time. First, always start with high-quality ingredients. Fresh, plump pecan halves make a huge difference in flavor and texture, and using good quality chocolate chips will elevate the overall taste. For the crust, ensure your butter is cold and cubed; this helps create a flaky, tender base that’s crucial for a perfect bar. When pressing the crust into the pan, aim for an even layer to ensure uniform baking.

Proper pan preparation is also vital. Lining your 9×13 inch baking pan with foil and lightly spraying it with cooking spray will make for incredibly easy removal and clean-up. Make sure the foil extends over two edges of the pan, creating “handles” that allow you to lift the entire batch of cooled bars out of the pan effortlessly. Don’t overbake the crust in its initial stage; it should be lightly golden. When pouring the chocolate condensed milk mixture, spread it evenly over the pecans to ensure every bite is equally delicious. Finally, patience is a virtue: allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting. This will ensure clean cuts and a perfectly set filling. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for maximum freshness, though honestly, they might not last long!

More Delicious Holiday Dessert Inspirations

If you’ve fallen in love with these Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars, you’re in for a treat with our other festive dessert recipes. Each one is carefully crafted to bring joy and sweetness to your holiday celebrations. Explore these delightful options to expand your holiday baking repertoire:

Brown Sugar Pecan Pie: A classic, rich, and deeply flavorful pie that’s a staple for any holiday table.
Deep Dish Dutch Apple Pie: Layers of sweet apples topped with a crunchy, buttery streusel.
Pumpkin Bread: Moist, spiced, and perfect for a cozy autumn or winter morning.
Cranberry Fluff: A light, airy, and refreshingly sweet side dish or dessert.
Cranberry Orange Shortbread Cookies: Buttery shortbread with a bright citrus and tart berry twist.

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Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

These easy Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars need to make it onto your holiday table this year! Rich and dreamy, these bars are the perfect treat for a crowd!

Course: Dessert
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 28 bars
Calories: 272 kcal
Author: Trish – Mom On Timeout

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
14 oz (1 can) sweetened condensed milk
3 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 cups (1 12 oz bag) semi-sweet chocolate chips
8 oz (1 bag) pecan halves
1/3 cup mini chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a 9 x 13 baking pan with foil, ensuring the foil extends over two edges of the pan for easy removal. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, use a pastry cutter or a fork to combine the cold, cubed butter, powdered sugar, and all-purpose flour until the mixture is crumbly.
Press the prepared crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the lined baking pan and bake for 12 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and unsweetened cocoa powder until smooth. Set aside.
Once the crust has finished baking, carefully remove it from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and all the pecan halves over the warm crust.
Pour the chocolate condensed milk mixture evenly over the top of the chocolate chips and pecans.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15 to 18 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly golden around the edges.
Immediately after removing the bars from the oven, sprinkle them with the mini chocolate chips. The residual heat will melt them slightly.
Allow the bars to cool completely on a wire rack before attempting to cut them. Once cooled, use the foil overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan, then cut into individual bars. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.

Notes

Recipe adapted from Brownies Blondies and Bars by Stephanie Brubaker.

Nutrition

Calories: 272kcal
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 23mg
Sodium: 22mg
Potassium: 175mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 16g
Vitamin A: 256IU
Vitamin C: 1mg
Calcium: 60mg
Iron: 1mg

Originally published November 7, 2015.

Discover More Irresistible Bar Recipes: Sweet Treats for Every Craving!

If you’re a true enthusiast of bars, blondies, and brownies, you’re in for a treat! We’ve curated a collection of some of our most beloved bar recipes that are sure to satisfy any sweet craving. From zesty and refreshing to rich and chocolatey, these bars are perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging yourself. Explore these delightful options and find your next favorite bake!

Irresistible Key Lime Pie Bars

Peanut Butter Snickers Cookie Bars

Reese’s Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookie Bars

Peanut Butter Caramel Toffee Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars

The post Decadent Chocolate Pecan Squares first appeared on Fitgag.

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