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Crispy No-Bake Pecan Pie Bars

crispy no-bake pecan pie bars - featured image

These easy, decadent bars blend classic pecan pie flavor with a modern, fuss-free twist—no oven required! Gooey caramel, toasted pecans, and a crispy cereal base make them perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a comforting treat any day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups crispy rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup or honey
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped (toasted for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Extra pecan halves (optional, for garnish)
  • Sea salt flakes (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving excess over the edges for easy lifting.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/4 cup light corn syrup (or honey) and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Cook, stirring constantly, until bubbling and sugar is dissolved (about 2 minutes). Remove from heat.
  3. Pour the hot butter mixture over 3 cups crispy rice cereal in a large bowl. Stir quickly to coat all the cereal.
  4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared pan. Press down firmly with a spatula or the back of a measuring cup to form an even layer.
  5. Toast 1 cup chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
  6. In the same saucepan (wipe out if needed), melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter. Add 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk, 1/3 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir constantly over medium heat until thickened and bubbling gently (about 3-4 minutes).
  7. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and toasted pecans. Mix well.
  8. Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the crispy base. Smooth with a spatula. Top with extra pecan halves and sea salt flakes if desired.
  9. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm. (Freezer for 30 minutes works in a pinch.)
  10. Lift bars out using parchment flaps. Cut into 16 squares with a sharp knife, wiping knife between cuts for clean edges.

Notes

Toast pecans for deeper flavor. Work quickly with the base before it sets. Use parchment for easy lifting and clean slices. For gluten-free, use certified gluten-free cereal. Bars can be made dairy-free with coconut oil and coconut condensed milk. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

Nutrition

Keywords: pecan pie bars, no-bake dessert, potluck recipe, easy dessert, crispy bars, holiday treat, caramel pecan bars