Indulge in the rich, buttery flavors of Carolina Pecan Bars. These delightful treats feature a luscious pecan filling atop a tender shortbread crust, making them the perfect dessert for any occasion. Follow this simple recipe to create these irresistible bars that are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until the ingredients form a crumbly dough.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use a fork to prick the dough all over.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Prepare the Pecan Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Pour the pecan filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
- Cut and Serve:
- Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and enjoy the rich, buttery goodness of Carolina Pecan Bars!
These Carolina Pecan Bars are a perfect blend of a crunchy shortbread crust and a sweet, nutty pecan topping. Enjoy them as a delightful treat for any occasion!
