CARAMEL PECAN DREAM BARS

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly.

Step 2: Make the Crust

1. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Press into Pan: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir in the caramel sauce and chopped pecans until well combined.
2. Pour Over Crust: Pour the caramel mixture over the pre-baked crust, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake Again: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly browned around the edges.
2. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

1. Cut into Bars: Once cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
2. Optional Toppings: If desired, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the bars and sprinkle with additional chopped pecans before serving.
3. Enjoy: Serve these delicious Caramel Pecan Dream Bars at room temperature, or refrigerate them for a chilled treat!

Tips for Success

• Homemade Caramel: For an extra special touch, consider making your own caramel sauce. It’s simpler than you might think and adds a rich flavor.
• Storage: Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
• Nut Allergies: If you have nut allergies, you can substitute pecans with another crunchy ingredient like chopped chocolate or cookie crumbs.
• Double the Recipe: For larger gatherings, feel free to double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan.

Conclusion

Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a delectable dessert that combines the sweet, nutty flavors of caramel and pecans with a buttery crust. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat, these bars are sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a dessert that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly manageable. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this irresistible delight!

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