If you love the rich, nutty sweetness of caramel and pecans, then Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are about to become your new favorite dessert. These indulgent bars feature layers of buttery crust, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans for a treat that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these bars are the ultimate dessert for pecan lovers.
What Makes Caramel Pecan Dream Bars So Special?
- Perfect Layers: A buttery crust, luscious caramel filling, and crunchy pecans combine for an unforgettable texture and taste.
- Versatile Treat: Serve them as dessert, bring them to a party, or enjoy them with coffee or tea for a mid-day pick-me-up.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The perfect mix of sweetness and crunch makes these bars a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
- 2/3 cup (200 g) light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup (55 g) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups (150 g) chopped pecans
INSTRUCTIONS:
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and sugar. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Make the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the pecan and caramel filling over the partially baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown. The center should no longer jiggle when gently shaken.
4. Cool and Slice:
- Remove the bars from the oven and let them cool completely in the pan. For best results, refrigerate the bars for at least 1 hour to make slicing easier.
- Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles and serve.
Tips for Perfect Caramel Pecan Dream Bars
- Use Fresh Pecans: Freshly chopped pecans will give your bars the best flavor and texture. Toasting them lightly beforehand can add an extra depth of flavor.
- Line the Pan: Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easy removal and less mess.
- Don’t Overbake: Watch carefully towards the end of baking—the filling should set but not become overly firm.
- Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love Caramel Pecan Dream Bars
The combination of rich caramel and buttery pecans is a match made in dessert heaven. With minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have on hand, these bars are an easy yet impressive treat to whip up for any occasion. Their chewy, gooey texture and crunchy pecan topping make every bite a delightful experience.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Dollop of Whipped Cream: Add a little extra decadence to each bar by serving it with fresh whipped cream.
- Warm with Ice Cream: Heat a bar slightly and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- As Part of a Dessert Platter: Pair with brownies, cookies, or lemon bars for a variety of flavors and textures.
