Caramel Pecan Dream Bars

 

Indulge in the rich flavors of caramel and pecans with these heavenly dream bars. With a buttery crust, creamy caramel filling, and crunchy pecan topping,

these bars are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for any occasion or dessert table, they’ll quickly become a favorite among family and friends.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

1. 9×13-inch baking dish
2. Mixing bowls
3. Saucepan
4. Whisk
5. Electric mixer (optional)
6. Spatula

Ingredients: For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup light corn syrup
• 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Pecan Topping:

• 2 cups pecan halves
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and melted butter until crumbly. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
3. Prepare the Caramel Layer: In a saucepan, melt 1 cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, stirring constantly. Cook and stir for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens and turns a caramel color. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour the caramel evenly over the crust.
4. Add the Pecan Topping: Arrange the pecan halves evenly over the caramel layer. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and melted butter. Drizzle the sugar-butter mixture over the pecans.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the caramel is bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Once cooled, cut into squares or bars and serve.