Dreamy Caramel Pecan Bars

Recipe :

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

For the Pecan Layer:

• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/3 cup honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup caramel candies (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking dish (about 9×9 inches) with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and brown sugar.
   • Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to create an even crust.
   • Bake the crust for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
3. Prepare the Pecan Layer:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter for the pecan layer.
   • Stir in the brown sugar, honey or maple syrup, and heavy cream.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
   • Stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
   • Pour the pecan mixture over the cooled crust.
4. Prepare the Caramel Layer:
   • In a separate saucepan, melt the caramel candies with heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth.
   • Pour the caramel over the pecan layer in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake and Chill:
   • Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden and the caramel is bubbly.
   • Allow the bars to cool completely in the baking dish, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set the caramel.
6. Cut and Serve:
   • Once chilled, lift the bars from the baking dish using the parchment paper.
   • Cut into squares or bars and serve.

These dreamy caramel pecan bars are a perfect combination of buttery crust, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans. Enjoy!