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Pecan Shortbread Bars

Irresistible Pecan Shortbread Bars for a Sweet Indulgence

These Pecan Shortbread Bars blend buttery goodness and crunchy pecans, perfect for a sweet indulgence.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 12 squares
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Dough
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free 1-to-1 flour blend for gluten-free option.
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed) Do not use softened butter.
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 cup pecan halves (toasted) Can replace with walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts.
For the Glaze
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream Coconut cream works well for dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed) Try maple syrup for a unique flavor twist.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for glaze)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • a pinch sea salt (for glaze) Balances sweetness.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Pastry cutter
  • 9x13-inch baking pan
  • medium saucepan

Method
 

Prepare the Dough
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and fine sea salt until well combined. Cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Fold in the toasted pecan halves.
Bake the Shortbread
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan and press the dough evenly into the bottom. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the edges are golden brown.
Make the Glaze
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, light brown sugar, unsalted butter, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Cook over medium heat until simmering and the sugar dissolves.
Glaze and Cool
  1. Once the shortbread has cooled enough, drizzle the warm glaze over the top. Allow to set for 15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1squareCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 2gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Keep butter cold for a flaky texture. Avoid overmixing the dough to prevent dense bars. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

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