Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup pecans (chopped)
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Fleur de Sel (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shortbread Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar.
- Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking pan to form a crust. Press it down firmly to ensure it holds together when baked.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Pecan Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract and the chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the partially baked shortbread crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Bake the Bars:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. The bars will firm up as they cool, but the center should still be slightly jiggly when you remove them from the oven.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.
4. Finish with Fleur de Sel:
- Once the bars have cooled, sprinkle them lightly with Fleur de Sel. The salt will add a beautiful crunch and balance the sweetness of the caramelized filling and buttery crust.
Why Fleur de Sel?
Fleur de Sel is the perfect finishing touch for these Pecan Pie Bars. Its delicate, flaky texture and subtle saltiness complement the sweet, nutty filling and buttery shortbread crust. The Fleur de Sel provides a delightful contrast that enhances the natural flavors of the pecans and the caramelized syrup, making each bite even more indulgent and satisfying.
Craving the perfect balance of sweet and salty? Add Fleur de Sel to your pantry today and experience how this exquisite finishing salt can elevate your desserts and more with its delicate flavor and luxurious texture!
Serving Suggestion:
Serve these Pecan Pie Bars at room temperature, drizzled with a little extra caramel or a side of whipped cream for a truly indulgent dessert experience. They also make a wonderful treat for gatherings, holiday parties, or as a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea.
Ready for More Mouthwatering Recipes?
If you loved these Pecan Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust, you’ll want to explore our full Thanksgiving Recipe Collection, exclusively for Salty Chef Club members! Our collection is packed with delicious recipes that incorporate premium sea salts like Fleur de Sel to elevate every dish, from savory sides to decadent desserts.
Download the Full Thanksgiving Recipe Collection Now!
Happy Thanksgiving from Caravel Gourmet!
