Here’s a rich and buttery Southern-inspired treat: Pecan Praline Bars — they combine a tender shortbread crust with a gooey, caramel-like pecan topping. Perfect for holiday trays, potlucks, or when you’re craving something sweet and nutty.
🍬 Pecan Praline Bars
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ⅔ cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk for a lighter version)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1½ cups chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
🔥 Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil and lightly grease.
2. Make the Crust:
- In a bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in flour and salt until crumbly and combined.
- Press evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
3. Prepare the Topping:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.
- Stir constantly until mixture comes to a gentle boil and thickens slightly (about 4–5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
4. Assemble and Bake Again:
- Pour the pecan praline topping evenly over the warm crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
5. Cool and Slice:
- Let cool completely in the pan before slicing into bars (cooling fully ensures clean cuts).
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4–5 days.
🍯 Optional Add-Ons:
- Drizzle with melted chocolate for extra indulgence.
- Add a touch of bourbon or maple syrup to the topping for deeper flavor.
Would you like a gluten-free or no-bake version of this recipe?