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#### Directions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the bars from sticking.
2. **Make the Shortbread Base**:
– In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer until smooth and creamy.
– Add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough will be slightly crumbly, but that’s okay.
– Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, using your fingers or a spatula to smooth the surface.
3. **Prepare the Pecans**:
– In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg. Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
– Pour the pecan mixture over the shortbread base in the pan, spreading it out evenly. The egg helps bind the pecans together while baking, giving the bars a beautiful texture.
4. **Bake**:
– Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the shortbread is golden brown around the edges, and the top is set and slightly browned.
– If desired, sprinkle a little brown sugar over the top before baking for an extra hint of sweetness and a caramelized finish.
5. **Cool and Cut**:
– Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
– Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut them into squares or bars.
6. **Serve and Enjoy**:
– Serve these delicious pecan shortbread bars on their own or with a cup of tea or coffee. They’re perfect for sharing or for enjoying as a sweet treat any time of day.
### Tips for Perfect Pecan Shortbread Bars
– **Use Cold Butter**: Make sure the butter is softened, but not too warm. If the butter is too soft, the shortbread dough might become greasy. Room temperature butter is ideal.
– **Toast the Pecans (Optional)**: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the bars will enhance their flavor. Simply toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they’re fragrant, then let them cool before using.
– **Chill the Dough (Optional)**: If you have time, you can chill the shortbread dough for about 30 minutes before pressing it into the pan. This helps the dough firm up, resulting in a more delicate texture when baked.
– **Add a Touch of Cinnamon**: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of ground cinnamon to the shortbread dough for a warm, spiced note that pairs wonderfully with the pecans.
### Variations to Try
– **Chocolate Drizzle**: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled bars for an extra indulgent touch.
– **Caramel Pecan Shortbread Bars**: Add a layer of caramel sauce over the shortbread base before adding the pecans for an even richer flavor.
– **Maple Pecan Shortbread Bars**: Swap the vanilla extract for maple extract and add a drizzle of maple syrup to the pecan topping for a fall-inspired twist.
– **Other Nuts**: While pecans are traditional, feel free to swap them for walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor.
### Why You’ll Love Pecan Shortbread Bars
These pecan shortbread bars are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the rich, buttery taste of shortbread combined with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. With their perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness, these bars are a truly irresistible dessert. They’re incredibly easy to make and can be enjoyed for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a special celebration.
### Conclusion
**Pecan Shortbread Bars** are the ideal combination of simplicity, flavor, and texture. Buttery, crumbly shortbread topped with toasted pecans creates a treat that’s both indulgent and comforting. Perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. So grab your ingredients and make these delicious bars today—you won’t regret it!
