Pecan Shortbread Bars

These Pecan Shortbread Bars are a buttery, nutty delight that combines the rich flavor of pecans with a tender, crumbly shortbread base. Perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, these bars are easy to make and utterly irresistible.

Ingredients

(Makes 16–20 bars)

• 1 ½ cups (180g) chopped pecans 🌰
• 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter , softened 🧈
• ⅔ cup (134g) granulated sugar 🍚
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍨
• ½ teaspoon salt 🧂
• 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch 🌽
• 2 cups (248g) all-purpose flour 🍞

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly grease the parchment paper with butter or nonstick spray.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

1. Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet.
2. Toast them in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes , stirring halfway through, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Shortbread Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter , granulated sugar , vanilla extract , and salt using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Add the cornstarch and mix until combined.
3. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour , mixing on low speed until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Press into the Pan

1. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan. Use your hands or the back of a spatula to press the dough evenly into the pan, creating a smooth, compact layer.
2. Optionally, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top for added texture and decoration.

Step 5: Bake the Bars

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes , or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
2. Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
2. Cut into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife. For clean cuts, wipe the knife with a damp cloth between slices.
3. Serve as-is or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Tips for Success

• Toasting Pecans: Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of pecans, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week .
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Customization: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra indulgent twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Pecan Shortbread Bars strike the perfect balance between buttery richness and nutty crunch. The shortbread base is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the toasted pecans add a satisfying texture and depth of flavor. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a homemade treat, these bars are sure to impress.

Indulge in this buttery, nutty goodness—it’s comfort food at its finest!