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Caramel Pecan Dream Bars

Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a delightfully indulgent treat that combines a buttery crust, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans into one irresistible dessert.

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer (optional)
  • Saucepan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Sharp knife
  • Parchment paper

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • Filling:
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
  • Topping Optional:
  • Caramel sauce for drizzling

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the dough is crumbly and starts to come together.
  • Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
  • Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  • Prepare the Filling:
  • In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
  • Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vanilla extract, and salt. Slowly add the warm sugar mixture to the eggs, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  • Stir in the chopped pecans.
  • Assemble and Bake:
  • Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
  • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
  • Serve:
  • Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars.
  • Drizzle with caramel sauce, if desired, before serving.
  • Prep Time:
  • 20 minutes
  • Cook Time:
  • 45 minutes
  • Total Time:
  • 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Nutrition (per serving, based on 24 bars):
  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 65mg
  • Total Carbohydrate: 24g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Enjoy these rich and satisfying Caramel Pecan Dream Bars, perfect for any sweet occasion!