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Salted Caramel Pecan Pie Bars

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These bars combine a buttery crust, luscious salted caramel, and crunchy toasted pecans for a perfect balance of sweet and salty in every bite. Ideal for gifting or casual get-togethers, they offer a modern twist on classic pecan pie in an easy-to-make bar form.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
  • 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (preferably flaky Maldon salt)
  • 1 1/2 cups (150g) pecan halves or pieces, toasted lightly
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) pure maple syrup or light corn syrup
  • 1 large egg, beaten

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix flour, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in cold, cubed butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press evenly into bottom of an 8×8-inch pan. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in packed light brown sugar and whisk until combined. Slowly add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Let cool slightly.
  3. Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly darker. Combine toasted pecans with maple syrup and beaten egg in a bowl, stirring until evenly coated.
  4. Pour warm salted caramel over pre-baked crust, spreading evenly. Scatter pecan mixture on top, pressing lightly. Bake for 20-25 minutes until pecan layer is set and golden brown.
  5. Remove from oven and cool completely on a cooling rack (about 2 hours) before slicing into squares.

Notes

If caramel thickens too much before pouring, gently warm it again on low heat, stirring constantly. Toasting pecans is essential for flavor and texture. Do not skip the egg in the pecan topping to keep nuts bound. Cool bars completely before cutting to avoid gooey mess.

Nutrition

Keywords: salted caramel, pecan pie bars, dessert bars, easy dessert, gift recipe, Father's Day dessert, caramel pecan bars

Find it online: https://oracooks.com/salted-caramel-pecan-pie-bars-recipe-easy-perfect-gift-for-dad/