Ina Garten’s Pecan Squares are the perfect balance of a buttery crust and a chewy, rich topping full of crunchy pecans. This dessert is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it an ideal treat for holiday gatherings or an indulgent snack. The sweet, nutty topping and soft base create a satisfying combination that’s sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• For the crust:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 tsp salt

• For the topping:

  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 tbsp heavy cream

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

2. Make the Crust: In a stand mixer, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Add the flour and salt and mix until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until it turns golden brown.

3. Prepare the Topping: While the crust is baking, make the topping by combining the brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, salt, vanilla extract, and eggs in a medium bowl. Whisk everything together until smooth.

4. Add the Pecans: Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.

5. Assemble the Cake: Once the crust is baked, remove it from the oven and pour the topping mixture over the crust. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is set and golden brown.

6. Cool and Serve: Allow the pecan squares to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.

Nutrients (per serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 25g

• Protein: 3g

• Fat: 15g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 40mg

• Sodium: 85mg

• Potassium: 80mg

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 20g

These Pecan Squares are a crowd-pleasing dessert with a perfect combination of sweetness and crunch, making them an excellent choice for any occasion!

Why Pecan Squares Are So Popular

What sets Ina Garten’s Pecan Squares apart from other desserts is their ability to offer the perfect balance of textures. The buttery crust provides a satisfying foundation that contrasts beautifully with the gooey, pecan-filled topping. The combination of sweetness from the brown sugar and the crunch of the pecans creates an unforgettable experience with every bite. Whether you are enjoying these squares during the holidays or serving them at a casual gathering, they will never disappoint.

Pecan desserts, in general, hold a special place in many people’s hearts. Their versatility and the nutty flavor they bring to sweets are beloved by many. However, Ina Garten’s approach to pecan squares elevates this traditional dessert into something extraordinary. The fact that these squares are easy to prepare only adds to their allure, making them a go-to choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike.

The Key to Perfect Pecan Squares

The secret to making Ina Garten’s Pecan Squares lies in its simple yet effective combination of ingredients. The crust is made with basic pantry staples like butter, flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients come together to create a dough that is soft yet firm enough to hold the topping in place.

The topping, on the other hand, consists of a sweet and slightly salty mixture of brown sugar, melted butter, cream, and eggs. Once mixed, the addition of coarsely chopped pecans gives the topping a delightful texture and nutty flavor. The beauty of this recipe is that it doesn’t require any complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making it a great option for any baker looking to create something truly delicious without much hassle.

How to Serve Pecan Squares

Pecan Squares are versatile enough to be served in a variety of settings. For holiday gatherings, they can act as a comforting addition to the dessert table. Their rich, nutty flavor pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of iced tea. They can also be served as a snack, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch in every bite.

These squares are also great for gifting. If you’re looking for a homemade gift to give to friends or family, a batch of Pecan Squares beautifully packaged in a decorative box will surely be appreciated. Additionally, they store well, which means you can bake them ahead of time and enjoy them over a few days. Whether you are serving them at a party, bringing them to a potluck, or enjoying them at home, these pecan squares are bound to impress.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure the best results when baking Ina Garten’s Pecan Squares, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be sure to press the dough evenly into the pan. An even crust is important because it provides a uniform base for the topping to sit on. Additionally, make sure the crust is golden brown before adding the topping. This ensures that the crust is fully cooked and won’t turn soggy once the topping is added.

When preparing the topping, it’s crucial to whisk the ingredients together thoroughly until smooth. This step helps create a silky texture that will set perfectly when baked. The chopped pecans should be stirred in last to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the topping mixture.

Finally, be patient when baking. The squares need to be baked for about 30-35 minutes after the topping is added, so allow ample time for the topping to set and turn golden brown. Once out of the oven, let the squares cool completely in the pan before cutting them. This allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to cut the squares into neat pieces.

Variations of Pecan Squares

While the original recipe is fantastic on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize these Pecan Squares to suit different tastes. For a different twist, you can substitute the pecans with another type of nut such as walnuts or almonds. This slight change will alter the flavor profile, giving the squares a new depth of taste.

For those who love chocolate, adding a handful of mini chocolate chips to the topping mixture can elevate the dessert to new heights. The sweetness of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the caramelized brown sugar and the crunch of the nuts. Another variation could involve adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crust for a subtle hint of spice, making it perfect for the fall and winter seasons.

Pairing Pecan Squares with Beverages

One of the most enjoyable aspects of pecan squares is their ability to pair well with a wide range of beverages. For an afternoon treat, serve them with a hot cup of coffee or a rich cappuccino. The warm, slightly bitter taste of coffee complements the sweetness of the pecan topping, creating a perfect balance of flavors.

If you prefer something cooler, try pairing the squares with a chilled glass of iced tea. The refreshing nature of iced tea, whether black, green, or herbal, works wonderfully with the rich, nutty squares. For a more indulgent pairing, consider a glass of dessert wine, such as a late-harvest Riesling, which has enough sweetness to match the flavor of the pecans.

Storing Pecan Squares

Pecan Squares store exceptionally well, making them a great option for preparing in advance. After baking, allow the squares to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy, you can let the squares come to room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to refresh their flavor. This makes them a convenient option for those who want to prepare ahead of time or have a sweet treat on hand whenever the craving strikes.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Pecan Squares are a delicious and versatile dessert that never fails to impress. With their combination of a buttery crust and a rich, chewy topping, they offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors. These squares are easy to make, customizable, and store well, making them an ideal option for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a comforting dessert, or preparing a gift for a loved one, Pecan Squares are sure to satisfy. So go ahead and bake a batch—you won’t regret it!