Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pecan pie bark is incredibly simple to prepare yet tastes like a decadent homemade treat. The combination of rich, buttery caramel, toasted pecans, and crisp graham crackers creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it takes just minutes to put together, making it an ideal last-minute dessert.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 10-12 graham crackers (enough to line a baking tray)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- In a heavy saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture is fully dissolved and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan caramel mixture evenly over the graham crackers, using a spatula to spread it out.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely before cutting into pieces.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 12-16 pieces
- Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Cooling time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or milk chocolate and drizzle over the cooled bark for extra richness.
- Nut Mix: Substitute some pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel mixture for a warm, spiced twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks for a firmer texture.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?
Yes, but add a pinch of salt to the caramel mixture for balance.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It stores well and can be made several days in advance.
How do I prevent my caramel from burning?
Stir constantly and keep the heat at medium to prevent scorching.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
Dark brown sugar will work for a deeper caramel flavor, but avoid granulated sugar.
Can I use store-bought caramel instead?
Homemade caramel is best for texture, but pre-made caramel sauce can work in a pinch.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for a gluten-free version.
Why is my bark too sticky?
Make sure it cools completely before cutting. If still sticky, chill it in the fridge.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes, sprinkle chocolate chips on top after baking and let them melt for a chocolaty touch.
How do I keep the bark crispy?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain crispness.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just use a larger baking tray and double all ingredients accordingly.
Conclusion
Pecan Pie Bark is a quick, easy, and irresistible treat that combines the best flavors of pecan pie with a delightful crunch. Whether you make it for the holidays, a party, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this bark is sure to be a hit. Give it a try and enjoy a buttery, caramelized, nutty delight in every bite!
Print
Pecan Pie Bark
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12-16 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pecan Pie Bark is a quick and easy dessert that combines the flavors of classic pecan pie with the crunch of graham crackers. With a buttery caramel topping and toasted pecans, this treat is perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or a simple indulgence.
Ingredients
- 2 sticks (1 cup) salted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 10–12 graham crackers (enough to line a baking tray)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Arrange graham crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- In a heavy saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan caramel mixture evenly over the graham crackers, spreading it out with a spatula.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until bubbly and caramelized.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into pieces.
Notes
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt dark or milk chocolate and drizzle over the cooled bark.
- Nut Mix: Substitute some pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty contrast.
- Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
