Pecan Caramel Bars are the epitome of indulgent desserts, combining a buttery shortbread crust, rich caramel, toasted pecans, and a luscious layer of melted chocolate. These bars are the perfect balance of crunchy, gooey, and creamy textures, offering a treat that’s as decadent as it is satisfying. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, looking for an impressive dessert to share, or simply craving something sweet, these bars deliver a gourmet experience with surprisingly simple ingredients.
The combination of toasted pecans and caramelized sugar creates a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the smooth chocolate topping. These bars are not only visually appealing but also pack a flavor punch in every bite. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, they’re destined to become a favorite among your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Decadent Layers: Buttery crust, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate make these bars a multi-layered delight.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, holidays, or anytime you want to impress with minimal effort.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars can be prepared in advance and stored for several days.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Caramel Layer:
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
For the Topping:
• 2 cups coarsely chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the dough forms a cohesive ball.
3. Press and Bake: Evenly press the dough into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Caramel Layer:
1. Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly until well combined.
3. Cook Caramel: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and reaches a deep caramel color.
4. Pour Over Crust: Evenly spread the caramel mixture over the baked crust.
Add the Topping and Bake:
1. Sprinkle Pecans: Scatter the chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer.
2. Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the caramel bubbles and the pecans are lightly toasted.
Add the Chocolate Layer:
1. Melt Chocolate Chips: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot pecan and caramel layer.
2. Spread Chocolate: Allow the chips to soften from the heat for a few minutes, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate evenly.
Cool and Set:
1. Cool at Room Temperature: Let the bars cool completely at room temperature.
2. Refrigerate: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the chocolate to set fully.
Slice and Serve:
1. Cut into Bars: Once set, slice the dessert into squares or rectangles.
2. Serve: Enjoy these rich, caramel-pecan-chocolate treats!
Tips
• Line the Pan: Use parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner edges when slicing.
• Even Slicing: For clean cuts, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between slices.
• Toasted Pecans: For deeper flavor, lightly toast the pecans before adding them to the caramel.
Storage Options
• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to a week to maintain freshness and firmness.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pecan Caramel Bars are a decadent treat that combines rich flavors and textures for a truly indulgent experience. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them solo, these bars are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth!
