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Brown Butter Pecan Shortbread Bar

These gooey Brown Butter Pecan Shortbread Bars are the perfect cozy winter dessert. A buttery shortbread crust topped with a rich, caramel-like pecan filling — simple, homemade, and perfect for holidays, gatherings, or slow winter afternoons.
Print Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Shortbread Crust

  • 1 Cup Unsalted Butter (2 Sticks)
  • 1/2 Cup Light Brown Sugar Packed
  • 1 tspn Vanilla Extract
  • 2 Cups Flour All-Purpose
  • 1/4 tspn Salt

For the Gooey Pecan Filling

  • 3/4 Cup Unsalted Butter 1 1/2 Sticks
  • 1 Cup Light Brown Sugar Packed
  • 1/2 Cup Honey
  • 2 TBSP Heavy Cream Or Milk
  • 1 tspn Vanilla Extract
  • 1/4 tspn Salt
  • 2 1/2 Cup Chopped Pecans (toasted optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat & Prepare Pan

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper.

Make the Shortbread

  • Brown the 1 cup butter until golden and nutty.
  • Let cool slightly.
  • Whisk in brown sugar and vanilla.
  • Add flour and salt; mix to form a soft dough.
  • Press into the prepared pan.
  • Bake 15–18 minutes, until lightly set.

Make the Gooey Pecan Filling

  • Melt the ¾ cup butter.
  • Add brown sugar, honey, cream, vanilla, and salt.
  • Bring to a simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Stir in the pecans.

Assemble & Bake

  • Pour filling over warm crust.
  • Bake 20–25 minutes, until bubbling and glossy.

Cool & Cut

  • Cool completely before slicing.

Notes

💛 Tips, Variations & Cozy Serving Ideas

Flavor Boosts

  • Add 1 tbsp bourbon for a deeper, warmer taste.
  • Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a salted-caramel finish.
  • Drizzle with dark chocolate after cooling.

Storage 

Keeps 4–5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer-friendly for up to 3 months.

Perfect For

  • Winter baking days
  • Holiday cookie platters
  • Gifting to neighbors
  • Coffee + conversation moments
  • Your cozy afternoon reset