If you love pecan pie but don’t want to turn on the oven, these No-Bake Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars are the answer. They’re gooey, nutty, and perfectly spiked with a splash of bourbon for that warm Southern flavor. The combination of sweet caramel filling, crunchy pecans, and a buttery graham cracker crust makes them a no-bake treat that’s as impressive as it is easy.
Perfect for holidays, parties, or anytime you need a quick dessert, these bars are rich, decadent, and guaranteed to wow your guests.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup or maple syrup
- 1/3 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Make the Crust
- In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and brown sugar until crumbly. Press firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined 9×9-inch pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, corn syrup, cream, and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Bring to a gentle boil for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla, bourbon, and pecans.
Step 3: Assemble
- Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the chilled crust. Spread with a spatula to smooth the top.
Step 4: Chill
- Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours or until set.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Cut into bars or squares. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Variation
- Chocolate Bourbon Bars: Add a thin melted chocolate layer between the crust and filling.
- Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle sea salt over the top before chilling.
- Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with walnuts or sunflower seeds.
- Extra Bourbon Flavor: Brush crust with 1 tbsp bourbon before adding filling.
Cooking Notes
- Use parchment paper with overhang to easily lift bars out of the pan.
- Chill fully before cutting for neat slices.
- Bars will soften if left out too long—store chilled.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as part of a holiday dessert tray.
- Pair with coffee or spiked eggnog.
- Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Tips
- Toast pecans before using for a deeper flavor.
- Adjust bourbon to taste—2 tbsp is rich but not overpowering.
- Store in fridge up to 5 days or freeze up to 2 months.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (stovetop)
- Chill Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: ~4 hours 25 minutes
Nutritional Info (per bar, approx. 16 bars)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 3g
- Carbs: 32g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 140mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make No-Bake Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars without bourbon?
- Yes! Just replace bourbon with extra vanilla or maple syrup for a non-alcoholic version.
Q2: Can I use dark corn syrup instead of light?
- Yes, dark corn syrup will give the bars a deeper flavor, closer to classic pecan pie.
Q3: Do I need to toast the pecans first?
- It’s optional, but toasting enhances the nutty flavor and crunch.
Q4: Can I freeze these bars?
- Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Q5: How do I keep bars from sticking when cutting?
- Use a sharp knife and wipe clean between cuts. Chilling overnight makes slicing easier.
Conclusion
These No-Bake Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars are a decadent twist on a Southern classic—gooey, nutty, and kissed with bourbon for an extra kick. They’re easy to make, require no oven, and are perfect for entertaining during the holidays or any time you crave a rich dessert. Serve them chilled, and watch them disappear fast!