Indulge in these delectable Chocolate Pecan Caramel Bars, featuring a buttery shortbread crust topped with gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and a rich chocolate layer. These bars offer a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of caramel complements the slight bitterness of dark chocolate, while toasted pecans add a delightful nuttiness.
- Textural Delight: Enjoy the contrast between the crumbly shortbread base, gooey caramel center, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate topping.
- Ideal for Gatherings: These bars are easy to slice and serve, making them perfect for parties, potlucks, or holiday celebrations.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: They store well, allowing you to prepare them in advance and enjoy throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Layer:
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¾ cup finely chopped pecans
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, brown sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Caramel Layer:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and salt. Stir until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Allow it to simmer for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the baked crust. Pour the caramel mixture over the pecans, ensuring even coverage.
- Bake:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling. Remove from the oven.
- Add the Chocolate Topping:
- Immediately sprinkle milk chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer. Let them sit for a few minutes to melt.
- Using a spatula, spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel layer.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment overhang to lift them out.
- Cut into squares and serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 16 bars.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes, plus cooling time.
Variations
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Chocolate Choices: Use dark or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate to suit your taste preferences.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the melted chocolate for a sweet and salty contrast.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: These bars freeze well. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm, microwave individual bars for about 10 seconds.
FAQs
What type of chocolate is best for these bars?
Milk chocolate chips are recommended for a sweet and creamy topping, but dark or semi-sweet chocolate can be used for a richer flavor.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Homemade caramel provides the best texture and flavor, but a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce can be a convenient alternative.
How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?
Ensure the crust mixture is well-combined and press it firmly into the pan before baking to maintain its structure.
Can I add other toppings?
Certainly! Consider adding shredded coconut or drizzling white chocolate over the top for added flavor and texture.
How should I cut the bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife, wiping it clean between cuts, and ensure the bars are completely cooled before slicing.
Are these bars gluten-free?
The recipe as written is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking pan. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Do I need to refrigerate the bars?
Refrigeration is not necessary. Storing them at room temperature maintains the ideal texture.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Yes, by using plant-based butter, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and dairy-free chocolate chips, you can create a vegan version.
What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant, to enhance their flavor.
Conclusion
Chocolate Pecan Caramel Bars are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether for a special occasion or an everyday indulgence, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy baking and savoring each bite!
Print
These chocolate pecan caramel bars are a rich and indulgent treat featuring a crunchy crust, gooey caramel, and a thick chocolate layer topped with toasted pecans.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: : 2 hrs 25 min
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
- Mix graham cracker crumbs and butter; press into the dish. Bake for 10 minutes.
- Pour caramel sauce over the crust and let cool.
- Heat heavy cream until warm, then pour over chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
- Spread melted chocolate over caramel and sprinkle with pecans.
- Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing into bars.
Notes
- Store in the fridge for a firmer texture or at room temperature for a softer bite.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds.