Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a delicious and indulgent dessert featuring a buttery crust, sweet caramel layer, and crunchy pecans. These bars are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at gatherings, potlucks, or holiday events. The combination of gooey caramel and toasted pecans makes them irresistible!
Why You’ll Love Caramel Pecan Dream Bars
- Rich and Gooey: The caramel layer makes these bars gooey and indulgent.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious treat in no time.
- Perfect for Parties: These bars are great for serving at parties or potlucks, as they can easily be made ahead of time.
- Versatile: You can add extra flavors like chocolate chips or coconut for a fun twist.
Ingredients
For the Crust
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Filling
¾ cup caramel ice cream topping or caramel sauce
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup pecans, chopped
½ cup shredded coconut (optional)
½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
For the Topping
¼ cup pecans, chopped (for garnish)
Sea salt (optional for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. - Prepare the Crust
In a medium bowl, beat together the flour, softened butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. - Make the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the caramel topping and flour until smooth. If you’re using store-bought caramel topping, make sure it’s slightly thick. Stir in the chopped pecans (and coconut or chocolate chips if using) until well combined. - Add the Caramel Filling
Pour the caramel and pecan mixture over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle extra pecans and a pinch of sea salt on top for added texture and flavor. - Bake the Bars
Return the pan to the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the edges are golden. The bars will firm up as they cool. - Cool and Slice
Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before lifting them out using the parchment paper overhang. Once cooled, slice into squares or bars and serve.
Tips for the Best Caramel Pecan Dream Bars
- Thick Caramel Sauce: If using store-bought caramel sauce, choose a thicker variety to ensure the bars hold their shape. If it’s too runny, add a bit more flour to thicken it.
- Toast the Pecans: For extra flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the filling.
- Chill for Cleaner Slices: If you want neat, clean slices, chill the bars in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cutting them.
Variations
- Chocolate Caramel Pecan Bars: Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate over the bars after baking for a chocolatey twist.
- Coconut Pecan Bars: Mix in ½ cup of shredded sweetened coconut for a tropical flavor.
- Salted Caramel Pecan Bars: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
Yes! If you prefer homemade caramel, it will work beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s thick enough to set once cooled.
Q2: How do I store Caramel Pecan Dream Bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars are perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake them the day before serving, and they will still taste fresh.
Q4: What can I serve with these bars?
Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a deliciously rich and nutty dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery crust, gooey caramel filling, and crunchy pecans, these bars are a true indulgence. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday party, potluck, or just as a treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress!
