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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.

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

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter. Mix until the dough is crumbly and starts to come together.
  3. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan.
  4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  5. Prepare the Filling:
  6. In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, corn syrup, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
  7. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  8. 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.
  9. Stir in the chopped pecans.
  10. Assemble and Bake:
  11. Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
  12. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden.
  13. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan.
  14. Serve:
  15. Once cooled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares or bars.
  16. Drizzle with caramel sauce, if desired, before serving.
  17. Prep Time:
  18. 20 minutes
  19. Cook Time:
  20. 45 minutes
  21. Total Time:
  22. 1 hour 5 minutes
  23. Nutrition (per serving, based on 24 bars):
  24. Calories: 220
  25. Total Fat: 14g
  26. Saturated Fat: 6g
  27. Cholesterol: 40mg
  28. Sodium: 65mg
  29. Total Carbohydrate: 24g
  30. Dietary Fiber: 1g
  31. Sugars: 14g
  32. Protein: 2g
  33. Enjoy these rich and satisfying Caramel Pecan Dream Bars, perfect for any sweet occasion!