Pecan Linzer Bars

BY :

Natalie Taylor

Posted On :

February 6, 2026

Welcome to the delightful world of Pecan Linzer bars, a treat that marries the buttery goodness of shortbread with the nutty crunch of pecans and the sweet tang of fruit preserves. These bars are not just desserts; they are an experience, a perfect blend of textures and flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these Pecan Linzer bars are sure to impress. With their easy preparation and stunning presentation, they’re a must-try for any dessert lover!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine biting into a warm, crumbly bar that cradles a rich layer of fruit preserves, all topped with a delicate, nutty crumble. That’s precisely what you get with Pecan Linzer bars. This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also brings an air of sophistication to your dessert table. Here are several reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for these bars:

Easy to Make: The recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect even for novice bakers.
Versatile Flavors: You can customize the fruit preserves to your liking, choosing from raspberry, apricot, or even seasonal fruits.
Nutty Goodness: The addition of pecans not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft, buttery base.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These bars can be served at picnics, holiday gatherings, or as a sweet treat for an afternoon tea.
Make Ahead: They can be prepared in advance, making them an excellent option for busy bakers.

With such appealing characteristics, it’s no wonder these Pecan Linzer bars quickly become a favorite among family and friends. They not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide an opportunity to showcase your baking skills.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting Pecan Linzer bars, you’re in for a delightful surprise. This recipe is a beautiful twist on the classic Linzer cookie, transforming it into a bar format that is both practical and delicious. Here’s why you should give it a try:

Rich Heritage: Linzer cookies have a storied history, dating back to the 17th century in Austria. By making these bars, you’re participating in a delicious culinary tradition.
Time-Saving: Unlike traditional Linzer cookies that require rolling and cutting out dough, these bars come together quickly, reducing your prep time significantly.
Great for Sharing: The bar format makes it easy to cut and share, making them ideal for parties and gatherings.
Nutritious Ingredients: Pecans are packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber, making these bars a more wholesome treat compared to many other desserts.
Endless Variations: You can easily adapt this recipe to cater to dietary preferences, whether you’re looking to make it vegan, gluten-free, or low-sugar.

With so much to offer, trying your hand at these Pecan Linzer bars is a decision you won’t regret. You’ll not only enjoy the process of making them but will also savor the delightful flavors that emerge from your oven.

Ingredients and Utensils Needed

Ingredients

For perfect Pecan Linzer bars, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
1 cup granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create a light texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must for enhancing the overall flavor.
2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your bars.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
1 cup finely chopped pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
1/2 cup fruit preserves: Choose your favorite flavor, such as raspberry or apricot.
Powdered sugar, for dusting: Optional, but adds a lovely finishing touch.

Recommended Tools

Having the right tools can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

9×13 inch baking pan: This is where your bars will bake. Make sure it’s greased to prevent sticking.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need a large bowl for mixing the dough and a smaller one for your fruit preserves.
Electric mixer: A stand or hand mixer will make creaming the butter and sugar effortless.
Spatula: For folding in the pecans and spreading the preserves evenly.
Wire rack: To cool your bars evenly after baking.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to successful baking.
Knife or pizza cutter: For slicing the bars into neat squares.

With these ingredients and tools on hand, you’re all set to create mouthwatering Pecan Linzer bars that will delight everyone!

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Pecan Linzer bars. Follow these instructions carefully for the best results:

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly from the get-go.
Prepare your baking pan: Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bars tough.
Fold in pecans: Gently fold the finely chopped pecans into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout.
Reserve dough: Set aside about 1 cup of the dough for the topping, and press the remaining dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
Spread preserves: Carefully spread the fruit preserves over the layer of dough in the pan, ensuring an even layer for balanced flavor in every bite.
Crumble topping: Take the reserved dough and crumble it over the top of the fruit preserves. This provides that beautiful crumbly topping characteristic of Linzer desserts.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Cool down: Remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar: Once cooled, dust the top of the Pecan Linzer bars with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Slice and serve: Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious homemade Pecan Linzer bars!

Throughout these steps, remember to pre-measure your ingredients and keep your work area tidy. Baking is as much about the process as it is about the end result, so enjoy the journey!

Tips and Variations

While the classic Pecan Linzer bars recipe is delectable as is, here are some tips and variations to enhance your baking experience:

Alternative Ingredients

Vegan Version: Substitute the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil, and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water).
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
Different Nuts: If you prefer, swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Fruit Preserves: Get creative with your choice of preserves! Use a mix of flavors or even fresh fruit compote for a fresh twist.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix until just combined to keep your bars tender.
Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so check your bars a few minutes early. They should be golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean.
Cooling Time: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. This helps them set and makes cutting easier.

With these tips, you can customize your Pecan Linzer bars to fit your personal taste and dietary needs while ensuring a successful baking experience!

Nutritional Values and Benefits

Understanding the nutritional content of your desserts can help you enjoy them guilt-free. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for Pecan Linzer bars (per bar, based on 16 servings):

Calories: 220
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total Carbohydrates: 26g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 3g

Pecans, the star nut in this recipe, provide a wealth of health benefits. They are rich in heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential nutrients like magnesium and vitamin E. Additionally, the fiber content aids in digestion and helps to keep you feeling full, making these bars a more satisfying treat compared to many other desserts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pecan Linzer bars?

Pecan Linzer bars are a delicious dessert that combines a buttery shortbread base with a layer of fruit preserves and a crumbly pecan topping, inspired by traditional Linzer cookies.

Can I use different types of nuts in Pecan Linzer bars?

Yes! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts for a unique flavor.

How do I store Pecan Linzer bars?

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer shelf life.

Can I freeze Pecan Linzer bars?

Absolutely! Wrap the bars tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.

What can I serve with Pecan Linzer bars?

These bars pair wonderfully with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Pecan Linzer bars are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors, satisfying textures, and an easy preparation process. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just for yourself, these bars offer a little taste of history and a lot of pleasure. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts, variations, or experiences in the comments below! If you love this recipe, be sure to share it and inspire others to try their hand at baking these delicious bars. Happy baking!

For more delicious recipes, check out my Pinterest: See More Recipes.

Looking for more baking inspiration? Take a look at these fantastic recipes: Naan, Sumac and Cardamom Shortbread, Gingerbread and Caramel Trifle, Strawberry Semifreddo, and Double Chocolate Pecan Biscotti.