If you have a sweet tooth and love that perfect mix of salty and sweet, you absolutely have to try this Salted Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe. These bars combine a tender sugar cookie crust with a luscious caramel layer, topped off with crunchy pecans and a sprinkle of kosher sea salt that makes every bite irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, these bars strike the perfect balance of gooey, crunchy, and buttery flavors that simply can’t be beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list because these Salted Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe come together with just a handful of simple essentials. Each ingredient plays its part in building layers of flavor and texture, from the buttery cookie base to the rich caramel and crunchy pecans.
- Refrigerated sugar cookie dough (6.5 oz roll): The convenient and buttery foundation for our bars, giving a soft yet sturdy crust.
- Caramel sundae topping (1/2 cup + 3 tbsp): The star ingredient for that irresistibly gooey caramel layer and drizzle on top.
- All-purpose flour (2 tbsp): Helps thicken the caramel mixture for a perfect consistency.
- Kosher sea salt (1/4 tsp): Adds a delightful salty contrast that elevates every bite.
- Crushed pecans (1/2 cup): Brings crunch and a nutty depth that complements the caramel beautifully.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and get an 8×8 baking pan ready with non-stick spray. If you want an easy time removing the bars later, lining the pan with foil or parchment paper is a wonderful trick that makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Set Aside Some Cookie Dough
Scoop out about half a cup of the sugar cookie dough and set it aside. This small portion will be used later to create a delightful crumble topping on the bars.
Step 3: Form the Cookie Crust
Press the remaining cookie dough evenly across the bottom of your prepared pan. Don’t worry about getting it perfectly smooth; a rustic look works great and still bakes into a golden, buttery crust.
Step 4: Partially Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 20 minutes until it’s lightly golden brown. This step ensures a firm base that will hold all the luscious toppings without becoming soggy.
Step 5: Mix the Caramel Filling
While the crust is baking, whisk together the caramel sundae topping and flour in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth. This helps thicken the caramel layer so it sets nicely.
Step 6: Add the Caramel Layer
Once the crust is out of the oven, spread the caramel mixture evenly over the warm cookie base, leaving a small border around the edges. This gooey layer is where the magic begins to happen!
Step 7: Top with Crumbled Dough and Pecans
Break up the reserved half cup of cookie dough into small crumbs and sprinkle it over the caramel layer. Then scatter the crushed pecans generously on top to add that perfect crunch.
Step 8: Final Bake
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. The top should turn a lovely golden brown, signaling that all the flavors have melded beautifully together.
Step 9: Cool and Add Finishing Touches
Allow the bars to cool for at least an hour so everything sets properly. Then drizzle the remaining 3 tablespoons of caramel topping over the bars and sprinkle with kosher sea salt for that signature salty caramel finish.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Cut into 16 bars and get ready to enjoy the sensational combination of textures and flavors that make this Salted Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe so special.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a few extra pecans on top enhances the presentation and flavor. For a fun twist, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each bar—it turns these bites into an indulgent dessert experience.
Side Dishes
These bars shine best on their own but also pair wonderfully with a fresh fruit salad or a light coffee or tea. Serving a hot beverage alongside balances out the sweetness and makes for a cozy treat perfect for gatherings or quiet afternoons.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, place bars on a pretty platter with parchment paper and garnish with additional chopped pecans or edible gold dust. Wrapping individual bars in parchment paper tied with twine makes them perfect for gifting or sharing with friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration helps keep them fresh for about a week without losing their delightful texture.
Freezing
You can freeze these bars by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 3 months, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert option for busy days.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy frozen bars, thaw at room temperature for a couple of hours. If you want to refresh that just-baked warmth, pop individual bars in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. The caramel will soften again and melt in your mouth.
FAQs
Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought topping?
Absolutely! Homemade caramel can add a lovely depth and freshness. Just be sure it’s thick enough to spread without running too much during baking.
Are these bars gluten-free?
This recipe uses standard sugar cookie dough with flour, so it’s not gluten-free as written. You could experiment with gluten-free dough options, but keep in mind texture and taste might vary.
What type of pecans work best?
Fresh, raw pecans that are lightly crushed work best for that perfect crunchy bite. Toasting them lightly can enhance their flavor even more.
Can I make these bars vegan?
Making these bars vegan would require substituting the sugar cookie dough, caramel topping, and possibly other ingredients with plant-based versions, which can be tricky but doable with some specialized products.
How do I prevent the caramel from leaking out during baking?
Mixing the caramel with a bit of flour thickens it so it sets nicely without oozing out. Also, spreading it carefully and leaving a border on the crust helps keep it contained.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Salted Caramel Pecan Bars Recipe enough for anyone looking for a dessert that hits all the right notes: sweet, salty, gooey, and crunchy. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and such a joy to make from start to finish. Give it a try and let these bars become your new favorite treat to share with loved ones.
