Indulge in the guilt-free decadence of Lite Chocolate Pecan Bars—an irresistible treat that expertly balances flavor and lightness. These bars feature a tender, crumbly crust made from brown sugar and butter, topped with a luscious layer of semi-sweet chocolate chips and crunchy pecans, all held together by a delicate egg white and light corn syrup mixture. Perfectly sweetened yet lower in richness, this recipe provides all the joy of classic pecan bars with a lighter twist. Ready in just 45 minutes and sized for 16 servings, these bars are the ideal dessert for gatherings or an everyday indulgence. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple pantry staples. Whether you're seeking a crowd-pleaser or a mindful dessert, these chocolate pecan bars deliver wholesome flavor in every bite!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and brown sugar. Mix until crumbly and well combined to form the crust.
Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it down. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool slightly.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg whites, light corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
Sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the baked crust. Pour the egg mixture on top, spreading it out to cover the crust and chocolate chips evenly.
Spread the pecan halves over the surface, pressing them down gently so they stick to the egg mixture.
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the filling has set and the edges are golden brown.
Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan.
Cut into 16 squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Calories |
2575 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 133.6 g | 171% | |
| Saturated Fat | 47.8 g | 239% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 124 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 738 mg | 32% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 332.4 g | 121% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.7 g | 67% | |
| Total Sugars | 174.0 g | ||
| Protein | 39.5 g | 79% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 132 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 12.8 mg | 71% | |
| Potassium | 718 mg | 15% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.