Description
Indulge in these nostalgic and decadent pecan caramel bars, a perfect blend of a tender, buttery shortbread crust and a luxurious, glossy caramel layer filled with toasted pecans. This easy-to-follow recipe uses high-quality ingredients like honey and heavy cream to create a professional-grade dessert. Whether you are hosting a party or looking for a comforting weeknight treat, these bars offer a sophisticated texture contrast and rich flavor that will leave everyone craving another square.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup brown sugar
8 tbsp salted butter, melted
¾ cup unsalted butter
¾ cup brown sugar (for the topping)
½ cup honey
1 tsp salt
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups pecan halves
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F and line a 9×13 baking dish with parchment paper.
Combine 2 cups flour, 1 cup brown sugar, and 8 tbsp melted salted butter in a bowl.
Beat until fine crumbs form and press firmly into the prepared baking dish.
Bake for 8 minutes until set.
In a saucepan, combine unsalted butter, remaining brown sugar, honey, salt, and heavy cream.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the caramel thickens slightly.
Fold in the pecan halves and pour the mixture over the pre-baked crust.
Bake for an additional 25 minutes until the caramel is bubbling and golden.
Notes
Ensure you use the scoop-and-level method for measuring flour to prevent a dry crust. Do not substitute the heavy cream with milk, as the high fat content is essential for a stable caramel. Toasting the pecans beforehand will significantly enhance the nutty depth of flavor. Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 33
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg