Maple pecan bars

Delicious maple syrup combines with pecans to create a simple yet scrumptious dessert fit for any occasion. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes these bars extra special.

Maple pecan bars

Yields 24 bars

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
• 4 large eggs
• 1 1/3 cups maple syrup
• 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, divided use
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9 x 13-inch pan and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Reserve 2/3 cup cake mix; set aside. Combine remaining cake mix, melted butter, 1 egg and 1/2  teaspoon of vanilla in a large bowl; stir until thoroughly blended (mixture will be crumbly); press into prepared pan.
3. Bake in preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown.
4. Combine reserved cake mix, maple syrup, remaining 3 eggs, sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in large mixing bowl; beat at low speed with electric mixer for 3 minutes; pour over crust; sprinkle with pecans.
5. Bake 35 to 40 minutes, or until filling is set. Cool completely in pan; transfer to refrigerator for at least 3 hours, this step makes it much easier to cut into bars.

Adapted from: Duncan Hines

More holiday dessert recipes

• Thanksgiving dessert cocktails
• Dainty holiday desserts
• Christmas bread pudding recipes