These Pecan Praline Bars are a delightful fusion of buttery shortbread crust and rich, caramelized pecan topping, creating a chewy, nutty treat that melts in your mouth. With a texture reminiscent of pecan pie, these bars are perfect for holiday gatherings, dessert trays, or an indulgent snack. The combination of brown sugar, butter, and toasted pecans results in a deep, caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
For the Praline Topping:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a crumbly dough forms.
- Press the dough evenly into a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Praline Topping
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in brown sugar, honey, and heavy cream.
- Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Pour the praline mixture evenly over the baked crust.
- Return to the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the topping is bubbling and caramelized.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Slice into squares and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Serving & Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
- Freeze individual bars for up to 3 months, thawing before serving.
These Pecan Praline Bars are a rich, buttery, and nutty delight, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the chewy caramelized topping and crisp shortbread base in every bite! 🍯🥜✨
For more inspiration, check out this recipe and another variation here!