Brown Sugar Pecan Coffee Cake Bars
There’s nothing like the smell of warm brown sugar and toasted pecans wafting through the kitchen—especially when it means you’re just minutes away from sinking your teeth into these irresistible Brown Sugar Pecan Coffee Cake Bars!
This easy recipe combines a tender, buttery cake with a sweet, nutty streusel topping that’s downright addictive.
Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert (let’s be real—I won’t judge if you eat them straight out of the pan).
Plus, it comes together in just a few simple steps with ingredients you probably already have on hand.
How to Make Brown Sugar Pecan Coffee Cake Bars
Note: This is an overview. See the recipe card below for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
1. Prep the Streusel Topping
In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, chopped pecans, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly. Set this aside—it’s the star of the show, so don’t skimp!
2. Make the Cake Batter
Whisk together the dry ingredients, then blend in softened butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. The batter should be thick but spreadable—if it’s too stiff, a splash of milk will loosen it up.
3. Layer & Bake
Spread the batter into a lined baking pan, then sprinkle the streusel generously over the top. Press lightly so it sticks, then bake until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. The aroma alone will have you hovering by the oven!
4. Cool & Slice
Let the bars cool slightly before cutting—this keeps them from crumbling. But hey, if you sneak a warm bite (or three), I won’t tell.
Pro Tips for the Best Coffee Cake Bars
- Toast the pecans first for deeper flavor—just 5 minutes in a 350°F oven does the trick.
- Use room-temperature butter for the batter to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
- Line the pan with parchment paper for easy lifting and cleanup.
Storage Tips
- Room temp: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual bars tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or microwave briefly.
Brown Sugar Pecan Coffee Cake Bars
Description
A tender coffee cake base topped with a crunchy brown sugar-pecan streusel, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Streusel Topping:
Cake Batter:
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8x8" baking pan with parchment paper.
-
Make streusel:
Combine pecans, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until crumbly.
-
Make batter:
Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Beat in butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth. Add milk if too thick.
-
Assemble:
Spread batter into the pan. Sprinkle streusel evenly on top, pressing lightly.
-
Bake:
Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 280kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16g25%
- Total Carbohydrate 32g11%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 20g
- Protein 3g6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For extra richness, swap half the butter in the batter for cream cheese.
- No pecans? Walnuts or almonds work too.
- Gluten-free? Use a 1:1 GF flour blend.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
