These deliciously sticky nut bars are like miniature maple pecan pies and are perfect as a dessert, snack, or indulgent breakfast. Swap out the walnuts and pecans with other varieties, or try mixing some dried fruit into the filling to add another layer of sweetness. Make a batch to share with friends—or store them in a container as a gift to yourself.
Recipe information
Yield
makes 16 bars
Ingredients
for crust
for filling
Preparation
make crust
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter an 8 by 8-inch metal baking pan.
Step 2
Combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt in a food processor and blend. Add the butter and process until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Combine the egg yolk and milk in a small bowl. Drizzle the egg mixture into the processor bowl; process using on/off pulses just until the dough clumps together but is still dry. Transfer the dough crumbs to the prepared pan. Press the crumbs onto the bottom and halfway up the sides of the pan. Bake until the crust is set and pale golden, about 25 minutes. Transfer the crust to a rack and cool.
make filling
Step 3
Combine the maple syrup, sugar, cream, and butter in a heavy medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil and boil 2 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the nuts and vanilla.
Step 4
Pour the filling over the crust, spreading the nuts evenly, and bake until the filling bubbles all over, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a rack and cool completely. Cut into bars and serve at room temperature.
do ahead
Step 5
The BARS can be prepared 1 day ahead. Store between sheets of wax paper in airtight container at room temperature.
