These Pecan Caramel Bars are a delightful blend of crunchy pecans, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate layered between buttery club crackers. With only 5 ingredients, they’re quick to whip up and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dessert or a simple sweet snack. The combination of flavors and textures makes them utterly irresistible!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing the pan)
- 60 club crackers
- 2 (11 oz) bags caramels, melted according to package directions
- 10 oz Fisher Pecan Halves, chopped
- 1 (11.5 oz) bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
Directions:
1. Prepare the Pan:
- Line and Butter the Pan: Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with foil, making sure the edges hang over the sides for easy lifting later. Butter the foil generously to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Crackers and Caramel:
- First Layer of Crackers: Arrange half of the club crackers in a flat layer on the bottom of the buttered pan, covering the entire surface.
- Add Caramel: Melt the caramels according to the package directions. Pour one-third of the melted caramel over the crackers and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Pecans and More Caramel: Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans on top of the caramel layer. Pour another third of the melted caramel over the pecans, spreading it evenly.
3. Repeat the Layers:
- Second Layer of Crackers: Place the remaining crackers in an even layer over the caramel.
- Final Caramel Layer: Pour the remaining melted caramel over the top layer of crackers, spreading it out smoothly.
4. Add the Chocolate Topping:
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, microwave the semi-sweet chocolate chips for about 2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Spread the Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the top layer of caramel and crackers, spreading it into an even layer with a spatula.
- Top with Pecans: Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans over the chocolate for extra crunch and flavor.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Let Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature until the chocolate hardens. For faster results, you can chill the bars in the refrigerator.
- Cut and Serve: Once the bars are set, allow them to come back to room temperature before cutting, as this makes it easier to slice through the caramel without cracking.
- Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Serving and Storage:
- Serving: These bars are rich and satisfying, making them perfect for a small treat. Serve them as a dessert or with coffee for a sweet indulgence.
- Storage: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If stored in the fridge, let them sit out for a few minutes to soften before serving.
- Freezing: These bars can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Cutting the Bars: Allow the bars to return to room temperature before cutting to avoid cracking the chocolate or making the caramel too hard to slice through.
- Club Crackers: The saltiness of the club crackers adds a perfect balance to the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate. If you want to use a different type of cracker, just ensure it’s similarly thin and crisp.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Perfect Caramel: Chef Ina Garten recommends stirring the caramel frequently while melting to ensure it stays smooth and doesn’t burn.
- Melting Chocolate: Pastry Chef Claire Saffitz suggests melting chocolate in short intervals in the microwave, stirring often to avoid overheating and seizing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use salted caramel instead of regular caramel?
Yes, salted caramel will add a delicious twist by enhancing the sweetness and balancing it with a salty touch.
2. Can I use milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will provide a sweeter and creamier topping, so it’s all about personal preference.
3. How do I prevent the caramel from getting too hard?
Be sure to let the bars come to room temperature before cutting to avoid hard caramel. If refrigerated, allow them to sit out for a bit to soften before serving.
4. Can I add more layers to the bars?
Yes, feel free to experiment with additional layers of crackers, caramel, and pecans to make the bars even heartier!
5. Can I make these nut-free?
If you’re avoiding nuts, you can skip the pecans or substitute them with a nut-free option like crushed pretzels or graham crackers for extra crunch.
These Pecan Caramel Bars are a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors. With just five ingredients and minimal effort, they’re a great choice for parties, potlucks, or any time you’re craving a delicious homemade treat!