Description
Mouthwatering Southern Pecan Pie Squares blend buttery pastry with rich caramel-like filling and crunchy pecans. Silky layers meld classic comfort with indulgent sweetness, promising a delectable treat you can’t resist savoring.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups pecan pieces (6 ounces)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
Sweeteners:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- ¾ cup dark or light corn syrup
Binding and Flavoring Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the foundation by heating the oven to a moderate temperature of 350°F, ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
- Transform a square baking vessel into a non-stick surface by generously applying cooking spray and draping parchment paper for effortless removal.
- Create a delicate crust by blending softened butter with granulated sugar and a hint of salt until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Gradually incorporate flour into the butter mixture, gently working it until a crumbly, cohesive dough forms.
- Press the fragile dough evenly across the prepared pan, creating a uniform base that will support the rich pecan topping.
- Bake the crust until the edges turn a delicate golden hue, approximately 20-22 minutes, developing a crisp foundation.
- Meanwhile, craft the luscious filling by whisking corn syrup with deep brown sugar, introducing eggs to create a silky texture.
- Enhance the filling with subtle notes of vanilla extract, a whisper of flour, and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
- Fold chopped pecan pieces throughout the liquid mixture, ensuring they are generously distributed for maximum flavor.
- Carefully pour the nutty filling over the freshly baked crust, allowing it to cascade evenly across the surface.
- Return the pan to the oven, baking until the filling sets and develops a rich, caramelized appearance, approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and allow the dessert to cool completely, letting the filling firm and the flavors meld.
- Refrigerate to achieve a perfect set, then slice into elegant squares for serving.
Notes
- Achieve the perfect crust by pressing the mixture firmly and evenly into the pan for a crisp, uniform base.
- Use room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and butter, to ensure smooth blending and consistent texture.
- Toast pecans briefly before adding to the filling to enhance their nutty flavor and provide a deeper, more complex taste profile.
- Check doneness by gently shaking the pan; the filling should be slightly jiggly but not liquid when it’s perfectly baked.
- Store squares in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, allowing flavors to develop and intensify.
- For best presentation, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle melted chocolate just before serving to elevate the dessert’s visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 16
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg