German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars

German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are delightfully rich bars filled with layers of chocolate, pecans, and a gooey caramel filling. They’re not overly sweet either. I think they’re perfect for any special occasion or holiday gathering, and if you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to omit them.

They will still be undeniably delicious! If you’re looking for a rich and indulgent dessert that’s not overly sweet, you’ve come to the right place. When you make a buttery crust and pair it with a gooey caramel and chocolate filling, you get the perfect treat. The addition of pecans just sends it over the top. I’ve really been in the mood for comforting, decadent desserts, and these dreamy bars remind me of cozy evenings and family gatherings. Not a fan of pecans? Don’t worry, it’s still delicious without them.

Kitchen Equipment Needed:

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk

Ingredients:

Crust:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Filling:

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until combined.
   • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
3. Layer the Chocolate and Pecans:
   • Sprinkle the semisweet chocolate chips evenly over the warm crust. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the chocolate layer.
4. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and honey, whisking until smooth and combined. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
   • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
5. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the pecans and chocolate layer in the baking dish. Spread it out gently with a rubber spatula if needed to ensure even coverage.
6. Bake the Bars:
   • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish on a wire rack. Once cooled, use the parchment paper to lift the bars out of the dish and transfer them to a cutting board. Cut into squares and enjoy your delicious German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars!

These German Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars are a decadent treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a deliciously gooey bar. Perfect for any gathering or special occasion!