Introduction
Pecan Dandy Do’s are a nostalgic, Southern-style dessert bar filled with buttery pecans, brown sugar, and a chewy caramel-like center. They’re similar to pecan pie bars but slightly lighter, easier to cut, and perfect for sharing. Whether for holidays, potlucks, or weekend baking, these bars deliver comfort and old-school charm.
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Description
These bars feature a tender shortbread-style crust topped with a gooey pecan filling that bakes into a glossy, chewy, sweet layer. The flavor is a blend of toasted pecans, vanilla, and warm brown sugar richness. They are simple to prepare and slice beautifully once cooled.
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Ingredients
For the Crust
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into cubes
Pinch of salt
For the Pecan Filling
2 large eggs
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans
2 tablespoons melted butter
Optional: 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup for extra depth
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Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Make the Crust:
In a bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, just until lightly set.
3. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
Add the brown sugar, flour, vanilla, and melted butter. Mix until fully combined.
Fold in the chopped pecans.
4. Add the Filling:
Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the warm crust.
5. Bake:
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is set and lightly golden.
6. Cool and Slice:
Let the bars cool completely in the pan.
Lift out using parchment and cut into squares.
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Tips
Toast the pecans lightly before adding them for deeper flavor.
Let the bars cool fully or even chill them before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Use a sharp, warm knife (run under hot water) for clean edges.
For a crispier crust, bake the base 3–5 minutes longer before adding the filling.
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Variations
Chocolate Chip Pecan Dandy Do’s: Add 1/3 cup chocolate chips to the filling.
Maple Pecan Version: Replace half the brown sugar with maple syrup and reduce melted butter by 1 tablespoon.
Coconut Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the filling.
Salted Pecan Dandy Do’s: Sprinkle the top lightly with flaky salt right after baking.
Cinnamon Twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to the filling for warmth.
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Correction
If you’re trying to make the recipe more authentic to traditional pecan bar formulas:
Ensure the crust is firm and not too thick; it should be a thin base, not a cake-like layer.
The filling should not be watery. If too loose, add 1 extra tablespoon of flour.
If too sweet, reduce brown sugar by 2–3 tablespoons without affecting texture.
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Enjoy
Serve Pecan Dandy Do’s at room temperature or slightly chilled. They pair perfectly with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Great for gatherings, holiday platters, or whenever you need a simple, nostalgic dessert.