Pecan Caramel Bars Recipe

A decadent treat with a buttery shortbread crust, gooey caramel filling, and crunchy pecans. These bars are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

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

For the Caramel:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions:

Make the Crust:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the flour and salt until just combined.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Let cool completely.

Make the Caramel:

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Bring to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Pour the caramel over the cooled crust.
2. Top with chopped pecans.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly.
4. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar.
• If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use a mixture of half-and-half and whole milk.
• To prevent the caramel from sticking to your knife, dip it in hot water before each cut.
• Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature.

Enjoy these delicious Pecan Caramel Bars!