CARAMEL PECAN BARS

Caramel Pecan Bars are a decadent and buttery treat, combining a sweet, gooey caramel layer with crunchy, toasted pecans on a shortbread crust. These rich, flavorful bars are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or when you’re craving something indulgent. The combination of the crisp crust and the sticky caramel-pecan topping makes these bars irresistible, and they’re surprisingly simple to make!

Ingredients:

For the crust:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the caramel pecan topping:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1/3 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the crust:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
    • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
    • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Make the caramel pecan topping:
    • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, honey, and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the caramel thickens slightly.
    • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
  3. Assemble and bake:
    • Pour the caramel pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
    • Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and the edges are golden brown. The caramel should be set but still soft.
    • Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before cutting.
  4. Serve:
    • Once the bars are fully cooled, cut them into squares or rectangles and serve.

These Caramel Pecan Bars are rich, buttery, and filled with a deliciously gooey caramel layer, making them the perfect indulgent dessert for any occasion!

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