Caramel Pecan Bars

 **Caramel Pecan Bars** are a deliciously indulgent dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust with a rich caramel and pecan topping. The base is a tender, slightly crumbly shortbread made from butter, flour, and a touch of sugar. Once baked, the crust is topped with a gooey caramel layer made from melted butter, brown sugar, and cream, then sprinkled generously with crunchy, toasted pecans. The bars are then baked until the caramel becomes thick and chewy. These bars offer a perfect balance of buttery richness, sweet caramel, and nutty pecan flavors, making them a great treat for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or just as a sweet indulgence.



Here's a delicious recipe for **Caramel Pecan Bars** that you can try:


### Ingredients


**For the Shortbread Crust:**

- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened

- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar

- 1/4 teaspoon salt


**For the Caramel Pecan Topping:**

- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter

- 1 cup (220g) packed brown sugar

- 1/3 cup (80ml) heavy cream

- 2 cups (240g) chopped pecans

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1/4 teaspoon salt


### Instructions


#### Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, cream together the butter, flour, sugar, and salt until the mixture is well combined and resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.

4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.


#### Step 2: Make the Caramel Pecan Topping

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and whisk until it dissolves.

2. Stir in the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Let the mixture cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.

3. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped pecans.


#### Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the caramel pecan mixture over the baked shortbread crust, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

2. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.

3. Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars.


### Tips

- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

- You can drizzle melted chocolate over the bars for an extra layer of flavor!


Enjoy your Caramel Pecan Bars!

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