Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour Recipe

There is something truly magical about a dessert that combines a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich, nutty, maple-infused filling. This recipe is all about the Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour – which forms the sturdy, flavorful foundation for these incredible Maple Pecan Pie Bars. Each element, from the toasty pecans to the luscious maple syrup filling, contributes to a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will have you coming back for more, slice after irresistible slice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and absolutely essential to the success of your bars. Each one adds its own magic: the butter brings richness, sugar offers sweetness, salt enhances all the flavors, and flour creates that wonderfully tender yet firm base you’ll adore.

• 75g (5 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted: Melting the butter ensures that it mixes evenly with the sugars for the perfect base consistency.
• 1/3 cup brown sugar (tightly packed): Adds caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the base and filling.
• 1/4 tsp cooking salt or kosher salt: Just enough salt to brighten all the flavors without overpowering them.
• 1 cup plain flour (all-purpose flour): The backbone of the base, giving it structure and that delightful crumbly texture.
• 1 1/2 cups pecans: Toasted for that perfect nutty crunch in the filling and decoration.
• Additional 75g unsalted butter: For the luscious maple-pecan filling.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (tightly packed): Sweetens the maple filling perfectly.
• 1/3 cup real maple syrup: The star ingredient that infuses the filling with warm, authentic maple flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Binds everything together for that rich, gooey texture.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a lovely aromatic touch.
• For decorating: 1/3 cup pecans, 2 tsp maple syrup, 1 pinch salt, 1/4 tsp salt flakes (optional): Adds a stunning finish and a final layer of flavor contrast.

How to Make Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour

Step 1: Preparing the Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour

Start by melting the unsalted butter until it’s warm and liquid but not hot. Then, stir in the brown sugar and salt until everything is well combined and smooth. Now comes the crucial part: add the flour and mix gently just until everything comes together. This step is where the base starts to build its lovely texture and flavor, so a gentle hand ensures you don’t overwork the dough. Press this mixture evenly into your lined baking pan, creating a firm, even layer that will form the foundation of your Maple Pecan Pie Bars.

Step 2: Baking and Cooling the Base

Pop your base into the oven preheated to 180°C (350°F) and bake it for about 20 minutes. This initial baking sets the base so it won’t get soggy once the filling goes on. After baking, let it cool for 15 minutes; this pause helps keep that buttery crust perfectly crisp and ready for the filling layers.

Step 3: Toasting the Pecans

While the base is baking, toast your pecans on a tray. This is the secret to unlocking their full flavor—oven-toasting enhances their nutty aroma and crunch, making the filling and topping even more delicious. After about 10 minutes, remove them and roughly chop once cool enough to handle.

Step 4: Making the Maple Pecan Pie Filling

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt, and bring the mixture to a proper simmer. This process melds the flavors so beautifully! Remove from heat and let it cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Then whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract until silky smooth. Finally, fold in the chopped toasted pecans—the filling is now ready to go on the base.

Step 5: Adding the Filling and Baking

Pour the maple pecan filling evenly over your baked base. For a stunning finishing touch, toss whole pecans with a little maple syrup and sprinkle them on top. Pop the pan back into the oven for 25 minutes. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is simply irresistible!

Step 6: Cooling and Setting

Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely at room temperature—about 2 hours—so the filling can set nicely. If you’re eager, a quick chill in the fridge works as well. Once set, cut into squares and enjoy the perfect balance of crisp base and gooey, nutty topping.

How to Serve Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top just before serving elevates the sweet and nutty flavors with a subtle crunch and a hint of savory magic. You can also drizzle a little extra maple syrup over each piece for a glossy, irresistible finish that makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

Maple Pecan Pie Bars pair beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which adds creamy coolness that contrasts with the bar’s warm richness. For a lighter option, try serving alongside fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your bars on a rustic wooden board with clusters of toasted pecans and small bowls of maple syrup and sea salt for guests to customize their bites. For a festive touch, sprinkle a few edible flowers or chopped candied pecans on top. These thoughtful details make your treat look as amazing as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store your Maple Pecan Pie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you live in a warmer climate, the fridge is best to keep the filling firm and the base crisp. Just be sure to let the bars warm slightly before enjoying for the best texture.

Freezing

These bars freeze wonderfully! Wrap individual squares tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

If you like your bars a bit warm, a quick 10-15 second zap in the microwave brings out that gooey filling and buttery aroma beautifully. Alternatively, warm them in a low oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-10 minutes to revive crispness in the base.

FAQs

Can I substitute brown sugar with white sugar in the base?

While you can, brown sugar adds essential moisture and a caramel flavor that white sugar won’t provide. The Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour step shines with brown sugar, so for best results, stick with it.

Is it necessary to toast the pecans?

Toasting pecans really amps up their flavor and crunch, which complements the soft gooey filling so well. It’s a small step with a big impact, so I highly recommend it.

Can I make the base gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in the Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour step. Just be sure the blend you choose doesn’t contain ingredients that alter the texture too much.

What if I don’t have real maple syrup?

Real maple syrup is key to that authentic flavor, but if needed, honey can work as a substitute—though it will impart a different, slightly floral sweetness.

How thick should I press the base mixture into the pan?

The base should be pressed evenly to about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This thickness ensures that it bakes through and provides a sturdy yet tender foundation for your filling without overwhelming it.

Final Thoughts

Now you have everything you need to make the most delightful Maple Pecan Pie Bars featuring the fabulous Base – mix butter, sugar and salt, then flour. This recipe is a testament to how a few simple ingredients, treated with care, come together to create something truly special. Give it a go, share with friends, and prepare for plenty of compliments and requests for seconds!

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