Pecan Chewies Recipe 🍯🥜 A Buttery Southern Classic

If you’ve never tried Pecan Chewies, you’re in for a real treat. These rich, chewy bars combine the nutty crunch of toasted pecans with the sweetness of brown sugar and the richness of butter, creating a dessert that melts in your mouth with every bite. Popular across the South, pecan chewies are often served during holidays, family gatherings, and potlucks—but they’re simple enough to whip up any day of the week. 😋

In this guide, we’ll share the classic recipe, expert baking tips from renowned chefs, a detailed nutritional breakdown, and answers to the most common questions about making pecan chewies at home. Let’s dive into this irresistible dessert!

Why You’ll Love Pecan Chewies

• 🍪 Soft, chewy texture with a crisp edge.
• 🥜 Loaded with toasted pecans for a nutty crunch.
• 🍯 Sweetened with rich, golden brown sugar for caramel-like flavor.
• 👌 Simple pantry ingredients, ready in under 40 minutes.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of classic pecan chewies:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.

3. Add Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture until combined.

4. Add Pecans

Stir in chopped toasted pecans, ensuring even distribution.

5. Bake

Spread the batter evenly into the prepared dish. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Cool & Slice

Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares or rectangles. Serve and enjoy!

Expert Chef Tips

• Chef Gordon Ramsay: “Toast your pecans before adding them. It intensifies the flavor and gives a richer crunch.”
• Chef Ina Garten: “Use dark brown sugar for a deeper caramel flavor in your chewies.”
• Chef Bobby Flay: “Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to give these bars a warm, spiced twist.”
• The Pioneer Woman, Ree Drummond: “Don’t overbake—chewies should be soft and gooey in the middle, not dry.”

Health Tips & Considerations

• 🌾 Swap half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• 🥥 Use coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a lower-glycemic option.
• 🍫 For indulgence, add dark chocolate chips for extra antioxidants.
• 🥜 Pecans are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants—great for heart health!

Nutritional Breakdown (per bar, based on 16 servings)

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍨
• Drizzle with caramel or chocolate sauce 🍫
• Serve alongside coffee or tea ☕
• Package in gift boxes for holidays 🎁

FAQs About Pecan Chewies

1. Can I make pecan chewies without nuts?

Yes! Simply omit the pecans or substitute with chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or walnuts.

2. Can I freeze pecan chewies?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. How do I make chewies more chewy?

Underbake them slightly—remove from the oven when the edges are set but the center still looks soft.

4. Can I use white sugar instead of brown?

You can, but the chewies won’t have the same caramel-like richness.

5. Do I need to refrigerate them?

No, store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

6. Can I add chocolate?

Yes, dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips make an excellent addition.

7. Why did my chewies turn out dry?

They were likely overbaked. Remove from the oven once golden brown and set around the edges.

8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.

9. Can I use pecan halves instead of chopped?

Chopped pecans distribute more evenly, but pecan halves work if you prefer larger chunks.

10. How can I make them festive?

Top with powdered sugar, drizzle with white chocolate, or add red and green sprinkles during the holidays.

More Delicious Recipes

• Southern Pecan Bars
• Classic Blondies
• Holiday Dessert Recipes

Final Thoughts

Pecan Chewies are the perfect blend of chewy, buttery, and nutty goodness. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe delivers a timeless dessert that’s loved across generations. Whether for a casual treat or a festive celebration, these bars are guaranteed to impress. 🍯🥜