Pecan Squares Recipe 🌰🍪

Introduction:

Indulge in the delightful flavors of pecans with these scrumptious Pecan Squares! 🎉 If you’re a fan of pecan pie but prefer something less sweet and with a touch of elegance, this recipe is perfect for you. These bars are not only easy to make but also versatile – ideal for serving on dessert trays, bringing to potlucks, or giving as thoughtful gifts during the holidays. Plus, you can even customize them with a sprinkle of miniature chocolate chips for an extra special treat! 😋

Recipe Overview:

• Name: Pecan Squares
• Category: Bar Cookie
• Keywords: Dessert, Cookie & Brownie, Fruit, Nuts, Potluck, Christmas, < 60 Mins, For Large Groups, Oven
• Servings: 24 squares
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 18 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup cake flour

For the Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 6 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp half-and-half
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 16 oz pecan halves
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×13 aluminum baking pan with heavy-duty foil, leaving 2-3 inches of foil overhanging on the short sides for easy removal later.

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2. Make the Pastry:

   • In a small bowl, mix the flours and salt.
   • Using an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
   • Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing on medium speed until fully incorporated and the dough begins to form large clumps.
   • Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, about 1/4-inch thick, and prick it with a fork or skewer.
   • Chill the pastry in the refrigerator until firm, approximately 20 minutes.

3. Bake the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the pastry until golden brown, for about 18 to 20 minutes. Then, transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Prepare the Filling:

   • Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven for 5-10 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Allow them to cool.
   • Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
   • In a medium saucepan over high heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, honey, granulated sugar, half-and-half, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (approximately 1 minute or 245°F on a candy thermometer).
   • Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the roasted pecans and vanilla extract.

5. Bake the Squares:

   • Pour the filling over the cooled pastry crust.
   • Bake the pecan squares until the filling bubbles, which typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
   • Allow the bars to cool on a wire rack.

6. Slice and Serve:

   • Carefully lift the bars out of the pan using the foil overhangs and transfer them to a large cutting board.
   • Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into approximately 24 squares.
   • Store the pecan squares in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Enjoy the rich, nutty goodness of these Pecan Squares with friends and family, or savor them as a delightful treat all to yourself! 😊👩‍🍳