Caramel Pecan Dream Bars – Gooey, Buttery & Irresistible Dessert

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Creating Caramel Pecan Dream Bars is simple with this easy-to-follow guide. These bars have a crisp, buttery crust and a rich caramel pecan filling, making them a perfect dessert for any occasion.

Prepare the Crust:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar.
3. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden. Let the crust cool slightly.

Make the Caramel Pecan Filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and heavy cream.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 2-3 minutes until the sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
4. The filling should have a smooth and glossy consistency.

If you love rich and nutty flavors, you might also enjoy these Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps, which feature a delightful crunch from pecans.

Assemble the Bars:

1. Pour the caramel pecan mixture evenly over the pre-baked crust.
2. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.
3. Let the bars cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.

Looking for more indulgent desserts? Try these Layered Red Velvet Cheesecake Bundt Cake for another decadent treat.

Cool and Serve:

• Slice into squares and serve as a sweet snack or dessert.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Enjoy the rich, buttery, and nutty flavors in every bite!

Expert Baking Tips for Perfect Dream Bars

To make Caramel Pecan Dream Bars truly irresistible, follow these expert baking tips. They ensure a perfectly gooey filling, a flaky crust, and the best texture possible.

1. Achieve the Perfect Crust

• Use cold butter for a flaky, tender base. If the butter melts too soon, the crust can become dense.
• Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan to prevent crumbling. A flat-bottomed glass helps create an even layer.
• Bake the crust until lightly golden to ensure it stays crisp under the filling.

2. Master the Caramel Pecan Filling

• Stir the brown sugar and corn syrup constantly while heating to prevent grainy caramel.
• Simmer the mixture just until the sugar dissolves. Overcooking can make the bars too hard.
• For an extra gooey texture, add an extra tablespoon of heavy cream before stirring in the pecans.

For another rich and nutty treat, check out these Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps. The pecans add a satisfying crunch in both savory and sweet dishes!

3. Bake with Precision

• Bake the bars until the caramel bubbles and turns golden. Overbaking can result in a hard, chewy texture.
• Let the bars cool completely before slicing. The caramel will firm up, making them easier to cut.

If you love gooey desserts, you’ll also enjoy these Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake, which offer another easy, indulgent treat!

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Caramel Pecan Dream Bar Variations

If you love Caramel Pecan Dream Bars, you’ll enjoy these delicious variations that put a unique spin on the classic recipe.

1. Chocolate Lover’s Dream Bars

• Swap butterscotch chips for dark chocolate or white chocolate chips.
• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for extra indulgence.
• Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a richer flavor.

2. Salted Caramel Pecan Bars

• Stir sea salt flakes into the caramel filling for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Use toffee bits instead of butterscotch chips for added crunch.
• Finish with a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt after baking.

For another caramel-inspired treat, check out these 6-Minute Caramels for a quick and easy way to enjoy homemade caramel flavor.

3. No-Bake Caramel Pecan Bars

• Use a graham cracker or shortbread crust instead of a baked crust.
• Chill the bars in the refrigerator until the caramel sets completely.
• Try a layer of cream cheese frosting for a creamy twist.

If you love no-bake desserts, these Butterscotch Cool Whip Pie will satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort!

Caramel Pecan Dream Bar Variations

Switch up your Caramel Pecan Dream Bars with these delicious variations. Whether you love extra chocolate, a salted caramel twist, or a no-bake option, there’s something for everyone!

1. Chocolate Pecan Dream Bars

• Replace butterscotch chips with semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for an elegant finish.
• Add mini chocolate chips to the filling for a double chocolate experience.

2. Salted Caramel Pecan Bars

• Stir sea salt flakes into the caramel pecan filling for a sweet-salty contrast.
• Swap butterscotch chips for toffee bits to enhance the caramel flavor.
• After baking, sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a gourmet touch.

For another caramel-infused treat, try these 6-Minute Caramels for a quick and creamy homemade candy.

3. No-Bake Caramel Pecan Bars

• Use a graham cracker or shortbread crust instead of baking the base.
• Chill the bars until the caramel sets completely for a firmer texture.
• Add a cream cheese layer for extra richness and flavor.

Love no-bake treats? These Butterscotch Cool Whip Pie are just as creamy and indulgent!

How to Serve Caramel Pecan Dream Bars

These Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are best enjoyed when served at the right temperature with complementary flavors. Here’s how to make them even more indulgent.

1. Serve Them Warm or Chilled

• Warm bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enhance the caramel’s gooey texture.
• Chill them in the fridge for a firmer bite, making them perfect for stacking and serving at parties.

2. Pair with the Perfect Dessert Companion

• Serve with a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a classic pairing.
• Drizzle with warm caramel sauce or melted chocolate for extra decadence.
• Pair with a warm drink, like this Copycat McDonald’s Shamrock Shake, for a refreshing contrast.

3. Present Them Beautifully

• Cut into uniform squares for a professional look.
• Garnish with whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed pecans for added texture.

For more delicious treats, these Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie offer another rich, comforting dessert!

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Storing and Freezing Tips

Proper storage keeps Caramel Pecan Dream Bars fresh and delicious. Whether you’re saving them for later or preparing them in advance, follow these tips!

1. Storing at Room Temperature

• Keep bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their texture.

2. Refrigerating for Longer Freshness

• If you want to keep them fresh for up to a week, store bars in the fridge.
• Let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
• For another easy-to-store dessert, check out these Easy Strawberry Kiss Cookies, which also stay fresh in the fridge!

3. Freezing for Long-Term Storage

• Wrap bars individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
• Love make-ahead desserts? Try these Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake for another freezer-friendly treat!

Nutrition Facts & Dietary Considerations

Each serving of Caramel Pecan Dream Bars is packed with flavor but also contains a fair amount of sugar and fat. Here’s what to expect nutritionally.

1. Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: ~375
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 33g
• Protein: 6g

2. Making Them Healthier

• Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lower-carb option.
• Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener to reduce refined sugar intake.
• Add chia or flaxseeds for extra fiber and nutrients.

For another lower-carb treat, try these Easy Crustless Broccoli Cheddar Quiche, a delicious savory alternative.

3. Allergen Considerations

• Contains dairy, gluten, and nuts.
• Use dairy-free butter and coconut cream for a vegan alternative.
• Swap pecans with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

Looking for another pecan-based recipe? These Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps offer a crunchy, savory twist!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to the most common questions about Caramel Pecan Dream Bars, including baking tips, storage, and ingredient swaps.

1. Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes! Swap pecans with walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a slightly different flavor and texture.

2. Do I need to refrigerate Caramel Pecan Dream Bars?

No, but it helps them last longer. Store at room temperature for 4 days or refrigerate for up to a week.

3. How do I make these bars firmer and less gooey?

• Bake for an extra 5 minutes to set the filling.
• Let them cool completely before slicing.
• Use less butter in the filling for a denser texture.

4. Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely! Freeze them for up to 3 months, then thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.

5. Why are my bars falling apart?

• The crust may be too crumbly—press it firmly into the pan before baking.
• The caramel filling needs to set—let the bars cool for at least an hour.

6. What’s the difference between these and pecan pie bars?

Pecan pie bars have a custard-like filling, while these bars have a chewy, cookie-like texture with caramelized pecans.

Looking for another pecan-inspired treat? Try these Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps for a crunchy, savory dish!

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Caramel Pecan Dream Bars – Gooey, Buttery & Irresistible Dessert

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• Author: Bites & Bliss

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Description

Caramel Pecan Dream Bars

Rich, Chewy Bars with a Buttery Crust, Gooey Caramel Filling, and Crunchy Pecans

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the crust:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

For the caramel pecan filling:

1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)

1/4 cup light corn syrup

1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)

1 tablespoon heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup pecans (chopped)

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Instructions

Prepare the crust:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly.

Make the caramel pecan filling:

• In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, and heavy cream.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved (about 2-3 minutes).
• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

Assemble the bars:

• Pour the caramel pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.
• Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 18-20 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.

Cool and serve:

• Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into squares.
• Serve and enjoy these rich, buttery Caramel Pecan Dream Bars as a dessert or sweet snack.