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Caramel Pecan Dream Bars

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These bars feature a shortbread crust topped with a rich caramel layer and crunchy pecans. They’re buttery, sweet, and perfectly nutty—a true dream dessert!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • Pinch of salt

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 cups pecans, roughly chopped

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
  • Make the Crust:
    • In a medium bowl, mix the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
    • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
    • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the topping.
  • Prepare the Caramel Pecan Topping:
    • In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the mixture is smooth.
    • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
    • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, salt, and chopped pecans.
  • Assemble the Bars:
    • Pour the caramel pecan mixture evenly over the partially baked crust.
    • Spread it gently with a spatula to ensure the pecans are evenly distributed.
  • Bake the Bars:
    • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
  • Cool and Slice:
    • Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. For easier slicing, chill them in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
    • Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan, then slice into squares or rectangles.
  • Serve:
    • Enjoy at room temperature or slightly chilled.

Notes

  • Add Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a decadent twist.
  • Pecan Substitutions: Use walnuts or almonds if you prefer, or a mix of nuts.
  • Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Find it online: https://recipe.ukfinda.com/caramel-pecan-dream-bars/