I first discovered Caramel Pecan Dream Bars at a holiday bake sale. The gooey, caramel center and the crunch of pecans caught my eye, and after one bite, I was hooked. They were so addictive that I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. After some experimentation, I perfected the recipe, and it has since become a staple in my baking repertoire. Every time I bake these bars, they bring back fond memories of that first bite, and they never fail to impress anyone who tries them.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 box yellow cake mix
1/3 cup soft margarine
1 egg
For the Filling:
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup bits o’ Brickle baking chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Pan and Preheat the Oven
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Ensuring the oven reaches the correct temperature is crucial for even baking.
Prepare the Baking Pan:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. This prevents the bars from sticking to the pan, making them easier to remove and cut after baking.
Step 2: Make the Crust
Mix the Crust Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box of yellow cake mix, 1/3 cup of soft margarine, and 1 egg. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer on medium speed to blend the ingredients until they form a soft dough.
Press the Dough into the Pan:
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Ensure the dough covers the entire bottom of the pan and is of uniform thickness to create a sturdy base for the bars.
Step 3: Prepare the Filling
Combine the Filling Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 can (14 oz) of sweetened condensed milk, 1 cup of chopped pecans, and 1/2 cup of bits o’ Brickle baking chips. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the Filling over the Crust:
Pour the filling mixture evenly over the crust in the baking pan. Use a spatula to spread it out if necessary, ensuring that the entire surface is covered.
Bake:
Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The bars are done when the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Cool the Bars:
Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. This cooling step is important as it allows the filling to set, making the bars easier to cut.
Cut into Bars:
Once cooled, cut the dessert into bars of your desired size. Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure clean edges.
Enjoy:
Serve the Caramel Pecan Dream Bars as a delightful dessert or snack. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk.
Variations and Substitutions
Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are versatile, and you can easily adapt the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Nut-Free: Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely for a nut-free version.
Chocolate Lover’s: Add chocolate chips to the filling for an extra layer of decadence.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Healthier Option: Replace the sweetened condensed milk with a low-fat version and use a butter substitute for a slightly healthier take.
Different Nuts: Try using walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a truly delightful treat that combines a rich, buttery crust with a luscious, caramel-pecan filling. The addition of bits o’ Brickle adds a delightful crunch, making each bite an explosion of textures and flavors. These bars are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any palate.
This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to festive celebrations. The simplicity of the preparation, combined with the impressive result, makes it a go-to dessert in any baker’s repertoire. Enjoy making these delicious bars, and share the joy they bring with family and friends.
