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Caramel and Pecan Bars: A Sweet, Nutty Treat for Every Occasion
Looking for a dessert that combines rich, buttery sweetness with the crunch of nuts and a little bit of indulgence? Caramel and Pecan Bars are the perfect treat for those who love a gooey, chewy dessert with a nutty twist. These bars are not only easy to make, but they also pack in layers of flavor that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, a family dessert night, or just want a sweet snack to enjoy, caramel and pecan bars will hit the spot.
Ingredients for Caramel and Pecan Bars:
These bars are built on a simple yet irresistible combination of caramel, pecans, and a buttery crust. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – The base of your bars, creating the perfect sturdy yet tender layer.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness to the crust.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – For a touch of sweetness.
- 1 egg – Binds the crust ingredients together.
For the caramel filling:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar – Provides deep sweetness and flavor to the caramel.
- ½ cup unsalted butter – The buttery base for the caramel, adding smoothness and richness.
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk – This is key for making a creamy, luscious caramel.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a fragrant note to the caramel.
For the pecan topping:
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans – These bring the perfect crunch and nutty flavor to the top of your bars.
- 1 tablespoon butter – To help toast the pecans slightly when baking.
Instructions for Making Caramel and Pecan Bars:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium-sized bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and softened butter together. Add the egg and stir until the mixture forms a smooth dough. Press this dough into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, making sure it covers the entire bottom evenly.
Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown. Once baked, remove it from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Caramel Filling:
While the crust is cooling, make the caramel filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly to prevent the mixture from burning, allowing it to melt and combine into a smooth, caramel-like consistency. Bring it to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Assemble the Bars:
Once the caramel filling is ready, pour it evenly over the baked crust, making sure it covers the entire surface. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel layer. Lightly press the pecans into the caramel to ensure they stick during baking.
4. Bake the Bars:
Return the pan to the oven and bake the bars for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the edges of the crust are golden brown. The pecans should also be toasted and slightly crisp.
5. Cool and Slice:
After baking, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This helps the caramel set and makes it easier to slice the bars cleanly.
Why You’ll Love Caramel and Pecan Bars:
These Caramel and Pecan Bars offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The buttery crust is slightly sweet and crumbly, creating a solid base for the rich, gooey caramel filling. The toasted pecans add a crunchy texture that complements the smooth caramel, creating an irresistible bite every time. Each bar is a perfect blend of sweetness, nuttiness, and richness that will satisfy your sweet tooth.
What’s more, these bars are extremely versatile. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, taking them to a potluck, or simply enjoying them with a cup of coffee, they’ll quickly become a crowd favorite. Their beautiful golden color and glossy caramel topping make them just as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Tips for Perfect Caramel and Pecan Bars:
- Don’t rush the caramel: When making the caramel, be patient and stir it constantly to avoid burning it. The slow simmering process helps develop the deep, rich flavor that makes the caramel so irresistible.
- Toast your pecans: If you have a bit of extra time, you can toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes before adding them to the bars. This will enhance their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of depth to the overall taste.
- Cutting the bars: After they cool, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares. If you’re having trouble with the sticky caramel, run the knife under hot water to make clean cuts.
- Make it ahead: These bars can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They actually taste even better after they’ve had time to set, allowing the flavors to develop fully.
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