Carolina Pecan Bars Recipe
Introduction and Origin
Carolina Pecan Bars are a Southern classic, offering the rich, nutty flavor of pecans layered over a buttery shortbread crust. Popular throughout the Carolinas and the broader Southern United States, these bars are often served at family gatherings, holidays, and church suppers. With roots in traditional Southern pecan pie, Carolina Pecan Bars are a simpler, more portable variation that captures all the flavor in an easy-to-serve form.
Cultural Significance
Pecans are deeply tied to Southern identity, especially in states like Georgia and the Carolinas. These bars reflect Southern hospitality—sweet, homemade, and meant to be shared. They also hold a special place during fall celebrations, Thanksgiving, and potlucks, symbolizing warmth, abundance, and tradition.
Ingredients Quantity
For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
For the topping:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
Optional Additions
- Add 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist
- Use dark corn syrup for a richer molasses flavor
- Add a splash of bourbon (1 tablespoon) for depth
- Sprinkle with flaked sea salt for contrast
Tips for Success
- Bake the crust first (blind bake) to avoid sogginess
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting for clean slices
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor—store them in the freezer to keep them fresh
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Make the crust: In a bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
- Bake crust for 15–18 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Prepare the topping: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, flour, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour topping over the baked crust and spread evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and edges are golden.
- Cool completely before slicing into bars.
Description
Carolina Pecan Bars feature a tender, buttery crust topped with a gooey, caramel-like filling loaded with chopped pecans. The bars are chewy in the center with a light crunch from the pecans, offering a rich bite that’s both comforting and indulgent—like pecan pie in bar form.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per bar, based on 24 servings)
- Calories: 235
- Total Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 2g
Conclusion and Recommendation
Carolina Pecan Bars are an irresistible Southern dessert that brings nostalgic charm and nutty sweetness to any occasion. They travel well, freeze beautifully, and are sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for gift baskets, bake sales, or simply treating yourself.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To enjoy a more wholesome version, consider using whole wheat pastry flour, coconut sugar, and maple syrup in place of corn syrup. Swap part of the butter for unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat. Even with lighter ingredients, these bars remain rich in flavor and full of Southern comfort.