Chocolaty Caramel Pecan Bars: A Delightful Holiday Treat
When the holiday season rolls around, one of my cherished traditions is whipping up a batch of these Chocolaty Caramel Pecan Bars, a recipe that has been a staple in my kitchen for years. These delectable treats are a harmonious blend of rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans, making them a favorite among friends and family alike. It’s not just the taste that keeps everyone coming back for more; it’s also the nostalgia and warmth that accompany each bite, reminding us of gatherings filled with laughter and joy. You might find yourself preparing a double batch because they vanish as quickly as they’re served!
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 24 bars
- Recipe Category: Bar Cookie
- Rating: ★★★★★ (1 review)
- Description: A festive treat perfect for Christmas, these bars are a delightful mix of chocolate, caramel, and pecans.
Ingredients
The following table outlines the ingredients you will need for this delicious recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered Sugar | ½ cup |
| Butter | ½ cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup |
| Pecans | 1 cup (chopped) |
| Caramels (unwrapped) | 35 pieces |
| Whipping Cream | ½ cup |
| Chocolate Chips | 2 ¼ cups |
| Additional Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Vanilla Extract | 2 teaspoons |
Nutritional Information
Here’s a detailed nutritional breakdown per serving (1 bar):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 231.2 |
| Total Fat | 16.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 21 mg |
| Sodium | 67.6 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 21.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g |
| Sugars | 14.4 g |
| Protein | 2.5 g |
Instructions
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for crafting these heavenly bars:
-
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Prepare a 9-inch square baking pan by greasing it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
-
Make the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ cup of softened butter, and 1 tablespoon of whipping cream. Blend the ingredients until they are well-combined and creamy. Next, add 1 cup of all-purpose flour to the mixture and mix until it achieves a crumbly texture.
-
Press Into Pan: With floured hands, evenly press the crumbly mixture into the bottom of the greased baking pan, creating a smooth, compact layer.
-
Bake the Crust: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust feels firm to the touch. This step is crucial as it forms the base for your delicious bars.
-
Prepare the Caramel Filling: While the crust is baking, take a medium saucepan and combine the unwrapped 35 caramels with ½ cup of whipping cream. Cook this mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the caramels have completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
Tip: For a quicker method, feel free to use the microwave to melt the caramels. Just ensure you check on it frequently to avoid burning.
-
Add the Pecans: Once the caramel mixture is smooth, remove it from the heat and immediately stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans, ensuring they are well-coated with the luscious caramel.
-
Spread the Filling: Carefully spoon the caramel-pecan mixture over the freshly baked crust, spreading it gently to cover the surface evenly without disturbing the crust too much.
-
Prepare the Chocolate Topping: In a small bowl, combine the 2 ¼ cups of chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of butter. Microwave this mixture in short intervals, stirring in between, until it is fully melted and smooth.
-
Drizzle the Chocolate: Once the chocolate is ready, drizzle it generously over the caramel-pecan layer. Feel free to spread it around with a spatula, embracing a rustic look over perfection!
-
Chill to Set: To ensure the bars set perfectly, refrigerate the entire pan for about one hour. A little hint here: before the chocolate topping firms up completely, score the top into squares with a knife. This will make cutting the bars much easier once they’re fully set.
-
Cut and Serve: After chilling, remove the pan from the fridge and cut the bars along the scored lines. You’ll have 24 delightful pieces, each one a sweet and satisfying bite that’s sure to impress!
Final Thoughts
These Chocolaty Caramel Pecan Bars are not only a holiday favorite but also a delightful treat any time of year. They’re perfect for large gatherings, potlucks, or simply to indulge yourself at home. The combination of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans is simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed straight from the fridge or at room temperature, these bars promise to bring joy to any occasion. Happy baking, and may your holidays be filled with sweetness and warmth!
