Salted Caramel Pecan Pie Bars are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, combining a rich caramel flavor with crunchy pecans in a deliciously buttery crust. These bars are not only a treat for the taste buds but also an ideal dessert for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy night in. If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that will impress your family and friends, these salted caramel pecan pie bars are the way to go!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 1-2 minutes without stirring, then remove it from heat. Stir in the chopped pecans and sea salt.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Pour the caramel pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Step 5: Cool and Cut
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cut into bars and serve. Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Pecan Pie Bars!
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
How should I store the salted caramel pecan pie bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made a day or two in advance. Just make sure to store them properly to maintain freshness.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What can I serve with these bars?
These bars pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.