Pecan Shortbread Bars

Pecan Paradise Shortbread Bars are a delightful confection that beautifully balances rich buttery flavor with the earthy crunch of pecans. This classic treat is perfect for a variety of occasions, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply indulging in a sweet snack on a cozy afternoon. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and the nutty goodness of pecans, these bars are bound to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Discover the delightful Pecan Paradise Shortbread Bars, where buttery richness meets the earthy crunch of pecans. Ideal for holidays or cozy afternoons, this simple recipe combines just a few ingredients for a melt-in-your-mouth treat. With a crumbly texture and nutty flavor, these bars are sure to become a favorite. Perfect for gatherings or as a sweet snack, follow our easy instructions to create this timeless dessert that everyone will love. Enjoy!

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Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup pecans, finely chopped

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8x8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later.

Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Add Vanilla: Mix in the pure vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Incorporate Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Press into the Pan: Transfer the dough into the prepared baking dish and press it down evenly to create a smooth, flat surface. Use a spatula or your hands for this step.

Prepare for Baking: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon (if using) for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pressed dough.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the center is just set. Remove from the oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Cut into Bars: Using the parchment overhang, lift the shortbread out of the pan and onto a cutting board. Allow it to cool completely before slicing into bars.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Pecan Paradise Shortbread Bars as a delightful treat with tea or coffee, and savor the crumbly texture paired with the nutty flavor of pecans.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | 16 bars