Pecan Pie Bark Recipe

This Pecan Pie Bark is a delicious twist on traditional pecan pie, with a buttery caramelized pecan topping over a crisp graham cracker base. It’s a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or to give as a gift. With just a handful of ingredients, this sweet and crunchy dessert is quick, easy, and impossible to resist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Only 15 minutes from start to finish.
Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for Thanksgiving and Christmas with its rich pecan flavor.
Sweet and Crunchy: The caramelized pecan topping over graham crackers creates a perfect texture.
Great for Gifting: Package pieces in holiday tins for a homemade gift that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Base

1 sleeve (about 15) graham crackers, broken into squares

For the Pecan Topping

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1½ cups chopped pecans
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, ensuring it fully covers the sheet for easy cleanup.
Arrange the graham cracker squares in a single layer on the baking sheet to cover it completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Pecan Topping

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar.
Stir continuously until the butter is fully melted and the mixture begins to boil. Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and create a smooth caramel.

Step 3: Add Pecans and Flavoring

Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Carefully pour the hot pecan mixture evenly over the graham crackers on the baking sheet, using a spatula to spread it and cover all the crackers.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the bark to cool completely. Once cooled, break it into pieces and enjoy!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil
Medium saucepan
Spatula

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions: Serve the pecan pie bark as a dessert, snack, or part of a holiday dessert platter. It’s also delicious with coffee or as a sweet treat in holiday gift baskets.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bark in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bark for an extra layer of flavor.
Spiced Pecan Bark: Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg to the pecan mixture for a warm, spiced twist.
Saltine Base: Use saltine crackers instead of graham crackers for a slightly salty, sweet-and-salty version.
Add Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top of the pecan mixture before baking for added texture and sweetness.

Helpful Notes

Boil the Caramel Carefully: Boiling the butter and brown sugar for 2-3 minutes creates the perfect caramel texture.
Cool Completely: Let the bark cool fully before breaking into pieces to ensure a clean break and crisp texture.
Avoid Over-Baking: Keep an eye on the bark in the oven to prevent the pecan topping from burning.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Ree Drummond’s Caramel Tip: Stir constantly while making caramel to prevent separation and ensure a smooth texture.
Ina Garten’s Baking Advice: Use fresh, quality ingredients like real vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, just omit the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Do I have to use graham crackers?
You can use saltines or digestive biscuits for a different flavor and texture, though graham crackers provide a nice sweetness.

Why is my caramel separating?
Caramel can separate if it’s overheated. Stir constantly and don’t let it boil for too long to keep the caramel smooth.

How can I keep the bark from sticking to the pan?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Can I make this bark in advance?
Yes! Pecan pie bark keeps well for up to a week, making it ideal for holiday prep or gifting.

This Pecan Pie Bark is a simple, delicious treat that combines the flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of a quick bark recipe. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or gift, it’s sure to be a holiday favorite!

Pecan Pie Bark

Susan

This Pecan Pie Bark is a sweet, buttery treat that combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity of a bark. With a crunchy graham cracker base and a topping of caramelized pecans, each bite has a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors. The rich brown sugar and vanilla in the topping create a caramel-like texture that pairs beautifully with the toasted pecans.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Total Time 15

Servings 12 Pieces

Ingredients

Base:

1 sleeve about 15 graham crackers, broken into squares

Pecan Topping:

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then arrange the graham cracker squares in a single layer to cover the sheet completely.
Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir continuously until fully melted and the mixture begins to boil. Allow it to boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Add Pecans and Flavoring: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the graham crackers, using a spatula to spread it and cover all crackers. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the ov

Notes

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil, then arrange the graham cracker squares in a single layer to cover the sheet completely.
Prepare the Pecan Topping: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir continuously until fully melted and the mixture begins to boil. Allow it to boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Add Pecans and Flavoring: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans, vanilla extract, and salt.
Assemble and Bake: Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the graham crackers, using a spatula to spread it and cover all crackers. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, break into pieces and enjoy!

Pecan Pie Bark Recipe