Pecan Chewies

Pecan Chewies are a perfect blend of buttery richness and sweet nuttiness, with a soft, chewy texture that’s truly irresistible. Made with simple ingredients and packed with crunchy pecans, these bars are the ultimate indulgence for any nut lover. Enjoy them as a snack, dessert, or alongside a warm cup of coffee!

Why You’ll Love These Pecan Chewies:

Buttery and Chewy: These bars have a soft, chewy texture with a buttery flavor that melts in your mouth.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and one pan, this recipe is great for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Nutty Crunch: The chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and warm, nutty flavor to each bite.
Versatile Dessert: These bars work wonderfully as a holiday treat, an afternoon snack, or even a sweet addition to brunch.
Crowd-Pleaser: This 9×13 inch pan recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd and stores well for days of enjoyment.

Key Ingredients:

1. Butter

Melted for Moisture: Melting the butter creates a denser, chewier texture that’s essential for these bars.
Avoid Boiling: Melt the butter slowly, either in the microwave or on the stovetop, to avoid separation.
Unsalted Butter: Use unsalted butter for control over the saltiness. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt by half.

2. White and Brown Sugar

Perfect Balance of Sweetness: The mix of white and brown sugar adds depth to the flavor, with brown sugar contributing a hint of caramel and chewiness.
Packed Brown Sugar: When measuring brown sugar, pack it firmly into the cup for the right amount.
Alternative Sweeteners: For a slightly richer taste, you can use dark brown sugar in place of light brown sugar.

3. Vanilla Extract

Warm Flavor: Vanilla enhances the overall flavor and brings out the nuttiness of the pecans.
Alternative Flavors: Add a touch of almond extract for a complementary flavor if you enjoy almond with pecans.

4. Flour, Baking Powder, and Salt

Flour Structure: All-purpose flour gives these bars structure and chew.
Sifted for Smoothness: Sifting the flour, baking powder, and salt helps eliminate lumps and ensures even mixing.
Baking Powder for Lightness: Baking powder gives a slight lift to the chewies, balancing the dense, chewy texture.

5. Chopped Pecans

Nutty Goodness: Pecans add crunch and a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the chewies.
Toasted for Extra Flavor: Toast the pecans briefly in the oven or a skillet to bring out their natural oils and enhance their flavor.
Alternative Nuts: Walnuts or hazelnuts make great substitutions if pecans aren’t available.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray for easy removal.

2. Melt the Butter

Melt Butter: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 15-second increments or on the stovetop over low heat until fully melted (not boiling).

3. Mix the Wet Ingredients

Combine Sugars: Add white and brown sugar to the melted butter. Beat until smooth.
Add Vanilla and Eggs: Mix in the vanilla extract. Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before the next.

4. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt to remove lumps and evenly distribute the ingredients.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add Dry to Wet: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined (avoid overmixing).
Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans for a rich, nutty flavor.

6. Bake the Bars

Transfer Batter: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden, with a firm but slightly soft center.

7. Cool and Cut

Cool: Let the Pecan Chewies cool completely in the pan for easier cutting.
Slice and Serve: Cut into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

 

Serving Suggestions:

These Pecan Chewies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate them with these serving ideas:

Dust with Powdered Sugar: For a touch of elegance, sift a light dusting of powdered sugar over the bars before serving.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for a decadent touch.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: These chewies pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
Top with Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips:

These Pecan Chewies are perfect for making ahead or storing for later!

Room Temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. They will firm up slightly in the fridge but remain chewy.
Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Make-Ahead Option: These bars are great for preparing a day ahead and taste just as good the next day.

Variations to Try:

Customize your Pecan Chewies with these fun variations:

Chocolate Chip Pecan Chewies: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
Coconut Pecan Chewies: Fold in ½ cup of shredded coconut along with the pecans for a tropical flavor.
Maple Pecan Chewies: Substitute ¼ cup of the sugar with maple syrup and add ½ teaspoon maple extract for a maple-pecan flavor.
Spiced Pecan Chewies: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced variation.

Conclusion:

Pecan Chewies are a delightful dessert or snack that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. With their buttery richness, nutty crunch, and chewy texture, these bars are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying them solo, these Pecan Chewies are a treat you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy each delicious bite!

Pecan Chewies

A delightfully soft and nutty treat, these Pecan Chewies are rich with buttery flavor, brown sugar sweetness, and a satisfying crunch from pecans. Perfect for any occasion, these bars offer a chewy texture and a hint of vanilla.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 12 bars
Calories 280 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup butter (2 sticks)
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 3 teaspoons vanilla
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup pecans chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  • Melt butter in a large microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop over low heat until fully melted, avoiding boiling.
  • Add white sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter and beat until smooth. Mix in vanilla extract, then add eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully.
  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined, then fold in chopped pecans.
  • Spread batter evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Edges should be golden, with a firm but slightly soft center.
  • Allow bars to cool completely in the pan for easier cutting. Slice into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

For added depth, try toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter. This brings out a more robust flavor and crunch.

Nutrition

Calories: 280kcal
Keyword Chewy Bars, Nutty Treat, Pecan Chewies, Pecan Dessert
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