Welcome to our delightful dessert recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a simple yet incredibly delicious recipe for Toffee Graham Cracker Squares. These treats feature a buttery toffee layer topped with chopped pecans, all on a base of crispy graham crackers. Perfect for a quick dessert or a sweet snack, these squares are sure to be a hit. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 sleeves graham crackers
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, and lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: Arrange the Graham Crackers
- Arrange Crackers: Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface. Break the crackers as needed to fit.
Step 3: Make the Toffee
- Melt Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Brown Sugar: Add the light brown sugar to the melted butter and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Boil Mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour Toffee Over Crackers: Pour the hot toffee mixture evenly over the graham crackers, spreading it out with a spatula to cover all the crackers.
- Sprinkle Pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the toffee layer.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly and the edges are slightly golden.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
- Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the toffee graham cracker squares cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Cut into Squares: Once cooled, cut the toffee graham cracker sheet into squares or desired shapes.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the toffee graham cracker squares as a sweet treat or dessert. Enjoy the crispy, buttery, and nutty flavors!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the toffee. If using salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt.
- Pecans: For extra flavor, toast the pecans lightly before sprinkling them over the toffee.
- Cooling: Ensure the toffee cools completely before cutting to allow it to set properly.
Variations
Chocolate Toffee Graham Squares
After baking, sprinkle 1 cup of chocolate chips over the hot toffee. Let them melt, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the toffee before it cools.
Almond Toffee Graham Squares
Replace the chopped pecans with sliced almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Coconut Toffee Graham Squares
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded coconut over the toffee along with the pecans for a tropical twist.
Sea Salt Toffee Graham Squares
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the toffee before it cools for a sweet and salty combination.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these squares ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these squares a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover toffee graham cracker squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these squares?
Yes, you can freeze the squares. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I serve with these squares?
These squares are delicious on their own but pair well with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or tea.
How can I make the squares healthier?
Use whole grain graham crackers and reduce the amount of sugar. You can also use a sugar substitute suitable for baking.
Toffee Graham Cracker Squares are a simple and delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy base, buttery toffee layer, and crunchy pecans, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful squares with your family and friends!
If you loved this Toffee Graham Cracker Squares recipe, be sure to check out our other delicious and easy-to-make dessert recipes. Happy baking!
