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Perfectly Gooey Pecan Pie Bars (No Corn Syrup!)

If you’re a fan of pecan pie but looking for a twist that is both easier to make and perfect for sharing, then these Perfectly Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are just what you need. With a rich, buttery base and a sweet, chewy topping, these bars capture all the flavours of the classic dessert without needing corn syrup. Ideal for gatherings, potlucks, or simply a treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to delight.

Ingredients

For the Base:

• 200g digestive biscuits (or graham crackers)
• 100g unsalted butter, melted
• 50g light brown sugar
• Pinch of salt

For the Filling:

• 200g packed light brown sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 120ml maple syrup (or golden syrup for a more traditional taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 150g pecans, roughly chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• A pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Base:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
• Line a 9×9-inch (23×23 cm) baking tin with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
• In a food processor, blitz the digestive biscuits until fine crumbs form. Alternatively, place them in a sealed bag and crush with a rolling pin.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit crumbs, melted butter, light brown sugar, and salt. Mix until all the crumbs are well coated and resemble wet sand.
• Press the mixture firmly into the base of the prepared tin, ensuring it is even. Bake for about 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the Filling:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined and smooth.
• Stir in the chopped pecans. If you’re using ground cinnamon, this is the time to add it.

3. Assemble and Bake:

• Pour the pecan mixture over the pre-baked biscuit base, spreading it evenly.
• Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the centre.
• Allow the bars to cool in the tin for at least 30 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Serve:

• Once cooled, lift the bars out of the tin using the parchment paper; cut them into squares or rectangles.
• For an elegant touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips for the Perfect Bars

• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or in the fridge for a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

• Pecan Variations: Feel free to mix in different nuts or even chocolate chips for a custom flavour profile.

• Make Ahead: The base can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to add the filling.

These Perfectly Gooey Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful cross between a classic pecan pie and a convenient bar, ensuring none of the fuss but all of the taste. With the absence of corn syrup, the natural sweetness from the maple syrup perfectly complements the rich flavour of the pecans, making each bite utterly satisfying. Enjoy them at your next gathering, or simply indulge in the comforting sweetness with a cup of tea at home!

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