Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares: A Deliciously Crumbly Treat

These Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares are the perfect treat for any occasion. They combine the buttery, crumbly texture of shortbread with the rich, nutty flavor of pecans and the sweet, warm essence of maple syrup. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these squares are sure to become a new favorite.

## Why You’ll Love These Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares

* **Buttery and Crumbly:** The shortbread base is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
* **Maple Pecan Flavor:** The combination of maple syrup and pecans is a match made in heaven.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** These squares are great for potlucks, bake sales, or a simple afternoon treat.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding other nuts or spices.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

### For the Shortbread Base:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups all-purpose flour

### For the Maple Pecan Topping:

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/4 cup maple syrup (use real maple syrup for the best flavor)
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

## Equipment Needed

* 8×8 inch baking pan
* Parchment paper
* Mixing bowls
* Electric mixer (optional, but recommended)
* Saucepan
* Measuring cups and spoons

## Step-by-Step Instructions

### Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan

Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This will make it easier to lift the shortbread squares out of the pan after baking. The parchment paper should be neatly tucked into the corners of the pan to ensure the squares bake evenly. Lightly grease the parchment paper with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

### Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender shortbread base. Use an electric mixer for best results, but you can also do it by hand.
2. Add the salt and mix until combined.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough shortbread.
4. The dough will be crumbly. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup or your fingers to create a smooth, even surface. Ensure the dough is firmly packed into the pan to prevent it from crumbling excessively after baking.
5. Use a fork to prick the shortbread base all over. This will prevent the shortbread from puffing up during baking.

### Step 3: Bake the Shortbread Base

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake the shortbread base for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on the shortbread, as baking times can vary depending on your oven. You want the edges to be a nice golden brown color.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly while you prepare the maple pecan topping.

### Step 4: Make the Maple Pecan Topping

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the brown sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will thicken the sauce slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

### Step 5: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the maple pecan topping evenly over the partially baked shortbread base. Make sure the topping covers the entire surface of the shortbread.
2. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown. Again, watch the shortbread carefully to prevent burning. The topping should be nicely caramelized.
3. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.

### Step 6: Cut and Serve

1. Once the shortbread squares are completely cool, use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out of the pan.
2. Cut into squares using a sharp knife. Wiping the knife clean between cuts will help you achieve clean, even squares.
3. Serve and enjoy!

## Tips for the Best Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Using good quality butter and real maple syrup will make a big difference in the flavor of your shortbread squares.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing the shortbread dough will result in a tough shortbread. Mix until just combined.
* **Let the Shortbread Cool Completely:** It’s important to let the shortbread cool completely before cutting it into squares. This will prevent it from crumbling.
* **Toast the Pecans:** Toasting the pecans before adding them to the topping will enhance their flavor. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
* **Salted Butter Option:** If you only have salted butter on hand, you can use it. Simply omit the 1/4 teaspoon of salt from the shortbread base and the 1/4 teaspoon from the topping.
* **Variations:** Feel free to experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the shortbread base or the topping. A drizzle of chocolate over the cooled squares would also be a delicious addition.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve these Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares with a cup of coffee or tea.
* They make a great addition to a dessert platter.
* Enjoy them as a sweet treat any time of day.
* Pack them in a lunchbox for a special midday snack.
* Pair them with vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent dessert.

## Storage Instructions

* Store leftover Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
* You can also freeze the shortbread squares for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

## Recipe Notes

* The key to a good shortbread is using cold butter. This helps to create a crumbly texture.
* If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it comes together.
* If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s the right consistency.
* Make sure to press the dough evenly into the baking pan. This will ensure that the shortbread bakes evenly.
* Don’t overbake the shortbread. It should be lightly golden brown around the edges.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per square)

* Calories: 250
* Fat: 15g
* Saturated Fat: 9g
* Cholesterol: 40mg
* Sodium: 80mg
* Carbohydrates: 25g
* Sugar: 15g
* Protein: 2g

## Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares Recipe

**Yields:** 16 squares
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 35-45 minutes

### Ingredients:

#### Shortbread Base:

* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups all-purpose flour

#### Maple Pecan Topping:

* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
* 1/4 cup maple syrup (use real maple syrup)
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

### Instructions

1. **Prepare:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
2. **Make the Shortbread:** In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add salt. Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined. Press dough into the prepared pan and prick with a fork.
3. **Bake:** Bake shortbread base for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool slightly.
4. **Make the Topping:** In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, heavy cream, and salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pecans.
5. **Assemble and Bake:** Pour maple pecan topping over the partially baked shortbread. Return to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until topping is bubbly and golden brown.
6. **Cool and Cut:** Let cool completely in the pan. Lift out using the parchment paper and cut into squares.
7. **Serve:** Enjoy your delicious Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares!

## Enjoy!

These Maple Pecan Shortbread Squares are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery base, rich maple pecan topping, and easy-to-follow recipe, they’re sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!