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There’s something truly special about the smell of Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars wafting through the kitchen, filling every corner with warmth and cheer. As the rich aroma mingles with hints of candied fruit and toasted pecans, it evokes fond memories of holiday gatherings and family traditions. These gooey delights strike the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort, making them irresistible to anyone who takes a bite.

Whether you’re tucked away in your cozy kitchen on a chilly afternoon or preparing for festive celebrations, these bars are poised to become your go-to treat. With the rich essence of rum and the sweet crunch of pecans, they satisfy your cravings for something rich yet comforting. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile—feel free to mix in your favorite dried fruits or nuts for a personal touch! Ready to embark on a delicious baking adventure? Let’s dive into creating a batch of these mouthwatering Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars that will surely impress family and friends alike.

Why are Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars irresistible?

Irresistible taste: The combination of warm rum and sweet, chewy pecans creates a flavor explosion that beckons for second helpings.
Effortless preparation: You don’t need to be a baking pro; just a few simple steps lead to these deliciously gooey treats.
Festive charm: Perfect for holiday gatherings, these bars add a touch of sweetness and nostalgia to any celebration.
Versatile adaptations: Easily swap in your preferred dried fruits or nuts to suit your taste.
Crowd pleaser: No one can resist these bars—serve them at your next get-together, and watch them vanish!

Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars Ingredients

For the Base
• Chopped Pecans – Provides crunch and nutty flavor; can substitute with walnuts for a different texture.
• Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; use unsalted for better control of salt levels.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
• Eggs – Acts as a binder for the bars; ensure they are at room temperature for proper mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; can use imitation vanilla extract if needed.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the bars; for a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend.

For the Fruit Filling
• Red Candied Cherries – Provides sweetness and color; dried cranberries or cherries can replace for a different taste profile.
• Chopped Candied Pineapple – Adds tropical flavor and moisture; substitute with fresh pineapple or omit for a less sweet version.
• Chopped Candied Citron – Offers a unique citrus flavor; can use candied ginger or omit entirely if unavailable.

For the Flavor Boost
• Rum – Imparts a distinct flavor and enhances the overall taste; substitute with apple juice or rum extract for a non-alcoholic version.

How to Make Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked bar with a gooey center and a slightly crisp edge to enhance the delicious texture.
Grease a 15x10x1-inch baking pan. Sprinkle 3 cups of chopped pecans evenly on the bottom—this will provide a delightful crunch to each bite of your bars.
Cream together softened butter and brown sugar in a large bowl. Beat until light and fluffy, which should take about 5-7 minutes, creating a rich and airy base for your mixture.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Don’t forget to include the vanilla extract; this will deepen the flavors of your bars beautifully!
Incorporate flour gradually into the mixture until just combined. Be gentle here; overmixing could lead to tough bars, so aim for a smooth batter.
Spread the batter into the prepared pan over the pecans, making sure it’s evenly distributed for uniform baking.
Combine the candied fruits (alongside any leftover pecans) and evenly distribute them on top of the batter. Press down gently to allow the fruits to meld into the mixture as it bakes.
Bake for about 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be golden with a soft, gooey center.
Sprinkle rum over the warm bars right out of the oven. Allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack, letting the flavors fully develop.
Cut into bars and store in an airtight container. These bars keep well and are perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week!

Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars?

Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that complement the rich, gooey goodness of these treats.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a creamy contrast to the warm bars, enhancing their textures beautifully.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a refreshing note, balancing the sweetness and bringing a burst of flavor to each bite.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea harmonize with the flavors of the bars, making for a cozy pairing, perfect for chilly afternoons.
Drizzled Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle takes the indulgence up a notch, adding an extra layer of sweetness that complements the gooey bars.
Toasted Coconut: Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of the bars for an added crunch and tropical flair that enhances the flavor profile.
Chocolate Ganache: A rich chocolate ganache serves as a decadent dip for the bars, satisfying any chocolate lover’s cravings while adding a luxurious touch.
Creamy Coffee: Enjoy these bars alongside a cup of creamy brewed coffee; the bitterness of the coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the bars.

Serving any of these delightful options alongside your Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars will surely create a memorable dessert experience for you and your loved ones!

How to Store and Freeze Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars

Airtight Container: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their gooey texture and flavor.

Refrigeration: For longer freshness, keep the bars in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re covered to avoid drying out.

Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds before serving, bringing back that gooey goodness of Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars.

Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars Variations

Add your own twist to Grandma’s beloved recipe with these delightful variations!

Nut Swap: Replace pecans with equal parts chopped walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique flavor and texture contrast. Each nut adds its own personality to the bars, offering a deliciously nutty adventure.
Dried Fruit Medley: Use dried apricots, figs, or even mango in place of the candied fruits for a tropical twist. This not only enhances flavor but transforms the bars into a fruity fiesta.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs. The bars will still maintain their rich, gooey consistency that everyone will love.
Vegan Delight: Instead of eggs and butter, use flax eggs and coconut oil for a plant-based version. It still delivers the same wonderful taste, making these bars perfect for vegans and non-vegans alike!
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy kick. The extra warmth brings a cozy element to these already comforting bars.
Chocolate Drizzle: Top the baked bars with melted chocolate for a decadent finish. A rich chocolate layer paired with the rum-infused bars creates an indulgent treat perfect for special occasions.
Rum Variation: Swap rum with a splash of bourbon or whiskey for a deeper flavor. It gives the bars a sophisticated twist that’s sure to impress your guests.
Extra Crunch: Fold in some crushed graham crackers or crushed toffee bits into the batter for added texture. The added crunch complements the soft gooeyness beautifully.

Expert Tips for Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better incorporation into the batter, which is crucial for Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter gently after adding flour to prevent tough bars. It’s okay to see a few flour streaks when combining.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are fresh. This impacts the overall flavor and texture of your bars.
Cool Before Cutting: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Refrigerating them for an hour makes cutting easier and neater.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with different dried fruits or nuts to customize your Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars. Just keep balance in sweetness!

Make Ahead Options

These Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the base and the fruit filling up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to whisk them together effortlessly whenever you’re ready to bake. Simply cream the butter and sugar, add the eggs and vanilla, and mix in the flour, then cover tightly and refrigerate. The candied fruits can also be chopped and combined before baking. When it’s time to serve, just preheat your oven and spread the prepped batter into the pan, top it with the fruit mixture, and let it bake. This helps save time and ensures your bars come out just as delicious, making them a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights!

Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars Recipe FAQs

What type of pecans should I use for Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars?
Absolutely! Fresh, chopped pecans are your best bet for this recipe as they provide that delightful crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous or don’t have pecans on hand, you can easily substitute them with walnuts for a different texture.

How should I store my Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars?
Store your bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them gooey and flavorful. If you prefer a longer shelf-life, feel free to refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re covered to avoid drying out!

Can I freeze Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars?
Sure thing! To freeze, wrap each individual bar in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive that delicious gooeyness!

What if my bars turn out too tough?
Very common! If you find your bars are tough, it might be due to overmixing, especially after adding the flour. When incorporating flour, mix gently until just combined. Additionally, using room temperature eggs can also help create a smoother batter, preventing toughness.

Can I adapt this recipe for dietary concerns?
The more, the merrier! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, use flax eggs in place of the regular eggs and coconut oil instead of butter. Just be sure to balance the sweetness if you’re also substituting the sugars.

How can I tell when my Grandma’s Pecan Rum Bars are done baking?
Look for a light golden edge! Bake for about 1 hour, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean. You want the center to be set but still gooey, ensuring that perfect texture everyone loves!