Table of Contents
- Introduction: Why You’ll Love Caramel Pecan Bars
- The Secret to Perfect Caramel
- Why Pecans Make a Difference
- A Dessert for Every Occasion
- How to Serve and Store Your Bars
- Tips from Dorothy’s Kitchen
Key Takeaways
Caramel Pecan Bars are a delightful combination of buttery crust, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for any occasion, they are easy to make and store well. Follow Dorothy Recipes for more dessert ideas that inspire and delight.
Introduction: Why You’ll Love Caramel Pecan Bars
Dorothy Recipes brings you a decadent treat that’s perfect for any dessert lover—Caramel Pecan Bars. These bars combine a buttery shortbread crust, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a sweet indulgence, this dessert checks all the boxes. Explore more delightful recipes on Dorothy Recipes.
The Secret to Perfect Caramel
The rich, gooey caramel is what sets these bars apart. Achieving the perfect caramel texture might sound challenging, but with this recipe, it’s a breeze. Follow the simple steps and use quality ingredients for a silky, smooth caramel layer that pairs beautifully with the pecans. You can find more caramel-based treats at Dorothy Recipes.
Why Pecans Make a Difference
Pecans add a distinctive crunch and nutty flavor that elevates these bars to a new level. Their natural sweetness complements the caramel perfectly. Choose fresh, high-quality pecans to ensure every bite is a delight. This nutty addition truly makes the Caramel Pecan Bars a standout dessert.
A Dessert for Every Occasion
From family gatherings to holiday parties, Caramel Pecan Bars are the perfect dessert for any event. Their versatile appeal makes them a favorite for casual get-togethers and formal celebrations alike. These bars are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
How to Serve and Store Your Bars
Serve these bars slightly warm for a gooey experience or chilled for a firmer texture. They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. To store, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Tips from Dorothy’s Kitchen
For the best results, use room-temperature butter when making the crust. Always allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to achieve clean cuts. For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle with sea salt for a gourmet finish. Discover more tips and tricks at Dorothy Recipes.
Caramel Pecan Bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and salt until smooth.
- Mix in the flour until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in pecans and vanilla extract. Pour the caramel pecan mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling and set.
- Allow to cool completely before slicing into bars.
