If you’re craving the rich, nutty goodness of pecan pie but want something quick and easy, these 4-ingredient no-bake pecan pie bars are a must-try! All you need are some graham crackers, pecans, maple syrup, and vanilla extract!
No bake gingerbread bars are perfect to serve with these bars over the holidays!
When Thanksgiving comes around, I look forward to the ooey gooey goodness of pecan pie! It can be a little time consuming to make. You have to roll out the dough, mix the ingredients, and then bake it. My oven is usually full to the brim during the holidays, so I am constantly looking for a no bake dessert and no bake snack!
That's where these no bake pecan pie bars come in! My family loves these bars because they taste just like pecan pie but are so much easier to make! The natural sweetness from the maple syrup and the crunch of pecans make them an irresistible treat. Whether we’re enjoying them as a quick snack or bringing them to a gathering, they’re always a hit!
Ingredients to Make Pecan Pie Bars
You only need a few simple ingredients to make these delicious no bake pecan pie bars!
- Graham cracker crumbs. You can buy a box of graham cracker crumbs in the grocery store or you can crush your own. You'll want a about 6-8 graham crackers.
- Pecans. Chopped. Save a few big ones to decorate the top of the bars with. If you've got extra pecans, make some maple pecan fruit salad with the extras!
- Maple syrup. To make the bars sweet. It also helps give the bars that gooey flavor and texture that makes them just like pecan pie.
- Vanilla extract. For a little extra flavor.
Be sure to check out the printable recipe card for full recipe information on ingredients and quantities.
How To Make No Bake Pecan Pie Bars
- Step 1: Start by crushing your graham crackers into fine crumbs. You can do this by placing them in a ziploc bag and rolling them with a rolling pin or pulsing them in a food processor.
- Step 2: Add the pecan bits to the bowl with the graham cracker crumbs.
- Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, chopped pecans, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined and forms a sticky mixture.
- Step 4: Place the pan in the refrigerator and let the bars chill for at least 1–2 hours, or until firm. Cut the bars with a serrated knife.
Lynn's Tip!
For a little extra flavor, drizzle the tops of the bars with some caramel.
Tips and Tricks
- Make sure to press the mixture firmly into the pan to help the bars hold their shape.
- For extra flair, drizzle the bars with melted chocolate or sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top.
- Freshly chopped pecans will give the bars the best flavor and crunch. Toast them for even more pecan flavor.
- If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can add a drizzle of honey or an extra tablespoon of maple syrup.
Storage Instructions
Store the bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They’ll stay firm and fresh. This is a great recipe to make at the beginning of the week and keep them in a container to enjoy throughout the week.
You can even freeze these bars! Wrap the bars individually and freeze them in a Ziploc bag for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds are great substitutes if you don’t have pecans.
If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more maple syrup, one teaspoon at a time, until it sticks together.
As long as your graham crackers are vegan, these bars are vegan!
No Bake Pecan Pie Bars
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing Bowls
- Knives
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 cup Graham Crackers Crushed
- ½ cup Pecans Chopped
- ¼ cup Maple Syrup
- ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Instructions
- Mix the graham crackers, pecans, maple syrup, and vanilla until combined. Press into a lined 8x8 inch baking dish and refrigerate until firm (about 2 hours). Cut into bars and serve.
Notes
- You can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a crowd or to serve as a dessert during the holidays.
- For a little extra special touch, sprinkle the top of the pecan bars with your favorite caramel sauce and a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
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