Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark – Your New Favorite Treat

Pecan Pie Bark is a delightful confection that combines the rich, buttery flavors of traditional pecan pie with the satisfying crunch of a toffee bark. This treat features a crisp graham cracker base topped with a luscious caramelized pecan mixture, resulting in a sweet and nutty dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.

  • Delightful Texture: The combination of a crunchy base and a chewy, nutty topping offers a satisfying contrast in every bite.

  • Crowd-Pleaser: Its sweet, buttery flavor makes it a hit at gatherings, potlucks, and holiday celebrations.

  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone treat, crumble it over ice cream, or package it as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Ingredients

  • 15 sheets graham crackers (approximately)Kitchen Serf

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)

  • 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)Kitchen Serf+1Lemon8+1

  • 2 cups pecan halves, roughly choppedKitchen Serf

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    • Line a 13×9-inch baking sheet with aluminum foil, ensuring it extends over the edges for easy removal. Lightly grease the foil.Kitchen Serf

  2. Arrange the Graham Crackers:

    • Place the graham crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface. You may need to break some crackers to fit.

  3. Make the Caramel-Pecan Topping:

    • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and begins to boil.

    • Once boiling, continue to cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

    • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, sea salt, and chopped pecans until well combined.

  4. Assemble the Bark:

    • Carefully pour the hot caramel-pecan mixture over the graham crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover all the crackers.

  5. Bake:

    • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and has slightly darkened.

  6. Cool and Set:

    • Remove from the oven and allow the bark to cool completely in the pan. For quicker setting, you can place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

  7. Break into Pieces:

    • Once fully cooled and set, lift the bark out of the pan using the overhanging foil. Transfer to a cutting board and break into desired-sized pieces.

  8. Serve:

    • Enjoy immediately, or store for later indulgence.

Servings and Timing

Variations

  • Chocolate Drizzle: After the bark has cooled, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top for added decadence.

  • Spiced Flavor: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the caramel mixture for a warm, spiced note.

  • Nut Mix: Combine pecans with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a varied nutty flavor.

  • Saltine Crackers: Substitute graham crackers with saltine crackers for a saltier base that complements the sweet topping.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store the pecan pie bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to two weeks.

  • Freezing: Place pieces of the bark in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to three months.

  • Reheating: This treat is best enjoyed at room temperature. If frozen, allow it to thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter; however, consider reducing the added sea salt to prevent the bark from becoming overly salty.

How do I prevent the caramel from becoming grainy?

Ensure that the sugar fully dissolves during the melting process and avoid stirring once it begins to boil to prevent crystallization.

Can I make this bark without nuts?

While pecans are a key component, you can substitute them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version.

Is it necessary to line the baking sheet with foil?

Lining the baking sheet with foil facilitates easy removal and cleanup. Parchment paper can also be used as an alternative.

Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Absolutely. Sprinkle chocolate chips over the caramel layer immediately after removing from the oven; they will melt and can be spread evenly.

What is the best way to chop the pecans?

Roughly chop the pecans using a sharp knife, aiming for a mix of sizes to add texture to the bark.

Print
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Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark – Your New Favorite Treat

Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark – Your New Favorite Treat

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  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes + cooling
  • Yield: About 20 pieces
  • Category: Dessert / Candy
  • Method: Baking
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark delivers all the gooey, buttery flavor of classic pecan pie in an easy-to-make, crunchy candy form. With caramelized brown sugar, roasted pecans, and a touch of sea salt, this bark is your next go-to sweet snack or holiday treat! Keyword: Pecan Pie Bark


Ingredients

  • 1 pound pecan halves

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt


Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

Toast the pecans: Spread pecan halves evenly over the prepared baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes, just until fragrant. Set aside.

Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and bring to a gentle boil. Cook, stirring constantly, for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.

Pour the caramel evenly over the toasted pecans on the baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread the mixture if needed to coat evenly.

Bake again for 10–12 minutes, or until bubbly and set.

Let cool completely until firm. Break into pieces and enjoy!

 


Notes

  • For extra flair, drizzle with melted dark or white chocolate after cooling.

  • Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to a week.

  • Makes a fantastic homemade gift for holidays or special occasions.

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