Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe

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Sure! Here’s a big, detailed recipe write-up for the caramel nut squares you’ve shown. These look like Caramel Pecan Bars (or Caramel Nut Fudge Bars).

🍯 Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe

📖 Introduction

Caramel Pecan Bars are a delightful fusion of buttery shortbread, crunchy nuts, and creamy caramel fudge layered into one irresistible treat. This dessert is often enjoyed during holidays, family gatherings, or as a special indulgence with coffee or tea. Its combination of nutty crunch and silky caramel makes it a dessert that balances richness with texture.

These bars are easy to make in advance and store well, making them perfect for sharing. They also carry a nostalgic charm, reminding many of traditional Southern desserts where pecans and caramel are a staple.

🥮 Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp salt

For the Caramel Nut Layer:

  • 2 cups pecans (or mixed nuts – walnuts, cashews, almonds)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup light corn syrup (or golden syrup)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

👩‍🍳 Instructions & Method

Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
  3. In a mixing bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light.
  4. Add flour and salt, mixing until crumbly dough forms.
  5. Press evenly into the prepared pan.
  6. Bake for 18–20 minutes, until lightly golden. Cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

  1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Add brown sugar, condensed milk, and corn syrup. Stir constantly.
  3. Bring mixture to a gentle boil and cook for 5–7 minutes until thickened (soft ball stage, 235–240°F).
  4. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt.
  5. Add pecans (or nuts of choice), stir to coat evenly.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

  1. Pour the hot caramel-nut mixture over the baked shortbread base.
  2. Spread evenly with a spatula.
  3. Let cool at room temperature for 2–3 hours (or refrigerate to set faster).
  4. Cut into squares or bars and serve.

🕰️ History

Caramel and nut-based desserts trace back centuries. Shortbread originated in Scotland, loved for its rich, buttery flavor. Pecans became popular in American baking, especially in the South, where they’re grown abundantly. Combining caramel and pecans gave rise to pralines, turtle candies, and later, modern caramel nut bars. This recipe is a fusion of Scottish shortbread and Southern-style praline flavors.

🌟 Benefits

  • Energy-rich: Nuts and caramel provide quick energy.
  • Good fats: Pecans, walnuts, and almonds contain heart-healthy fats.
  • Comfort food: Brings warmth and nostalgia during gatherings.
  • Customizable: Can be made gluten-free with almond flour or vegan with coconut milk and plant-based butter.

🏗️ Formation (Serving Ideas)

  • Serve chilled for a firmer bite or slightly warm for gooey richness.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgence.
  • Cut into mini squares for party platters.
  • Wrap in parchment paper for a homemade gift.

🍴 Nutrition (Per Bar, approx. 1 of 24)

  • Calories: ~280
  • Fat: 17g
  • Carbs: 29g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fiber: 2g

(Varies depending on nut choice and portion size)

💕 Lovers of This Dessert

This treat is adored by:

  • Nut lovers who enjoy the crunch.
  • Caramel enthusiasts who can’t resist smooth sweetness.
  • Families & kids who like fun, shareable desserts.
  • Holiday bakers who prepare trays of bars for Christmas or Thanksgiving.

📝 Conclusion

Caramel Pecan Bars are a classic yet versatile dessert—buttery, nutty, and indulgently sweet. With their rich history rooted in shortbread and praline traditions, they stand as a timeless favorite for gatherings, celebrations, and cozy afternoons. Whether enjoyed with coffee, shared among friends, or gifted in a festive box, these bars are always a hit.

For lovers of caramel and nuts, this dessert is more than just a bar—it’s a comforting bite of tradition and joy.

Would you like me to also give you a no-bake version of this (like fudge-style caramel nut bars) that sets in the fridge instead of using an oven?

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