Name: Caramel Pecan Dream Bars
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon salt

These Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are the perfect blend of rich, buttery flavor and crunchy texture. With a smooth caramel layer, chopped pecans, and a melt-in-your-mouth shortbread crust, these bars are a decadent treat that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped

1/4 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

In a medium bowl, I combine the flour and powdered sugar. I then cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. After that, I press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.

Then I bake the crust for 12-15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Once done, I remove it from the oven and set it aside.

In a saucepan, I melt the brown sugar and heavy cream over medium heat. I stir in the vanilla extract and salt, bringing the mixture to a simmer. I let it cook for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.

After thatI remove the caramel sauce from the heat and pour it evenly over the baked crust.

Then I sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel layer and gently press them into the caramel.

I bake for an additional 15-18 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the pecans are golden brown.

After baking, I allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 16 servings

Storage/Reheating

Once the Caramel Pecan Dream Bars have cooled completely, I store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If I want to keep them fresh longer, I can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, I just pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or let them come to room temperature for a few minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when the caramel is thick enough?

The caramel should simmer for about 3-4 minutes, thickening slightly as it cooks. If it coats the back of a spoon, it’s ready to pour over the crust.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! I like to use pecans in this recipe, but walnuts or almonds would work well too. Just make sure to chop them up so they’re easy to spread over the caramel layer.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, I can make these bars a day or two ahead of time. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Can I freeze these bars?

Yes, I can freeze them! Once the bars have cooled and been cut into squares, I place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to a month. I thaw them at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

How can I make the crust crispier?

If I want a crispier crust, I can bake it for a minute or two longer, watching carefully to avoid overbaking. I also find that pressing the dough mixture into the pan firmly helps create a firmer, more textured base.

Conclusion

These Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are an easy, indulgent treat that I can’t get enough of. They combine the rich flavors of caramel and butter with the crunch of pecans, all in a simple-to-make bar form. Whether I’m making them for a special occasion or just as a sweet snack, they always hit the spot. So next time I’m in the mood for something sweet, I know exactly what to make!

Recipe: