CARAMEL PECAN DREAM BARS

Ingredients**

For the crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the caramel pecan layer:

• 1 1/2 cups brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (or evaporated milk)
• 1/4 cup corn syrup (optional but adds gloss and smoothness)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 cups chopped pecans (or halves for texture)

Instructions**

1. Make the crust:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, powdered sugar, and salt.
3. Mix until crumbly and press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
4. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.

2. Prepare the caramel pecan topping:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add the brown sugar, cream, corn syrup (if using), and salt.
3. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened.
4. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla and pecans.

3. Assemble and bake:

1. Pour the hot caramel pecan mixture over the baked crust.
2. Spread evenly using a spatula.
3. Return the pan to the oven and bake for 15 minutes more.
4. Let it cool completely (for best results, chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours before slicing).

Serving and Storage**

• Cut into squares or bars using a sharp knife (wipe between cuts for neat edges).
• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
• You can also freeze them — just wrap each bar individually in parchment paper.

Tips for Perfection**

• Want a softer caramel layer? Reduce cooking time for the caramel by 1–2 minutes.
• For extra depth, sprinkle a touch of flaky sea salt on top after baking.
• Substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or macadamias for variation.

Benefits**

• Pecans are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and fiber.
• Butter and brown sugar give that old-fashioned bakery flavor.
• Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or gifting — these bars stay fresh and travel well.

History of Caramel Pecan Dream Bars**

The delicious Caramel Pecan Dream Bars you see today are rooted in the rich dessert traditions of the American South, where pecans and caramel have long been kitchen staples. These bars bring together the region’s love for buttery crusts, nutty textures, and indulgent sweetness — a combination that’s been cherished for generations.