Pecan Squares Recipe π°πͺ
Introduction:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of pecans with these scrumptious Pecan Squares! π 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! π
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:
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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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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.
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Bake the Pastry: Preheat the oven to 375Β°F. Bake the pastry until golden brown, for about 18 to 20 minutes. Then, transfer the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
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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 325Β°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 245Β°F on a candy thermometer).
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the roasted pecans and vanilla extract.
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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.
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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! ππ©βπ³