Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup pecan halves, roughly chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides.
- Step 2: In a food processor, pulse together the flour, cold butter, brown sugar, and salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Step 3: Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- Step 4: While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the maple syrup, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Step 5: Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the top. Pour the maple syrup mixture over the pecans.
- Step 6: Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into bars. Sprinkle with sea salt before serving.
Notes
- For a cleaner cut, chill the bars in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt really elevates the maple-pecan flavor.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- If you want to warm the bars before serving, microwave individual pieces for 10-15 seconds to soften the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American