Pecan Chewies are a quintessential Southern dessert, beloved for their rich, buttery flavor and chewy texture. These bars combine the nutty goodness of pecans with the sweet, caramel-like flavor of brown sugar to create a treat that’s both comforting and indulgent. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday feasts, Pecan Chewies are a surefire way to please a crowd.
I first encountered Pecan Chewies at a church potluck in Georgia. A lovely lady named Miss Betty had brought them, and they were an instant hit. The buttery, chewy texture combined with the crunch of pecans was simply irresistible. After just one bite, I knew I had to get the recipe. Miss Betty was kind enough to share it with me, and since then, it has become a staple in my baking repertoire. Every time I make these bars, they bring back fond memories of that warm, welcoming community and the joy of sharing delicious food.
Ingredients
1 cup butter (2 sticks)
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
3 teaspoons vanilla
2 eggs
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup pecans, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This will help prevent the bars from sticking and make them easier to remove from the dish.
2. Melt the Butter
In a large microwave-safe bowl, heat the butter in 15-second increments until it is fully melted. Be careful not to overheat it, as you just want it melted, not boiling.
If you prefer, you can also melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
Add both the white sugar and brown sugar to the melted butter. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, beat the mixture until it is smooth and well combined.
Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. This ensures a smooth and cohesive batter.
4. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps to remove any lumps and ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a tougher texture.
Fold in the chopped pecans gently with a spatula. The pecans add a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor to the bars.
6. Bake the Bars
Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean.
The edges should be golden brown, and the center should be firm but still slightly soft to the touch.
7. Cool and Cut
Allow the Pecan Chewies to cool completely in the baking dish. This will help them set and make them easier to cut.
Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles using a sharp knife.
Variations and Substitutions
Nut Alternatives: While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of different nuts for a varied texture and flavor.
Chocolate Addition: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best to balance the sweetness of the bars.
Coconut Flavor: Mix in ½ cup of shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend is suitable for baking.
Healthier Version: Substitute half of the butter with applesauce to reduce the fat content. Note that this may slightly alter the texture.
Conclusion
Pecan Chewies are an appealing and enjoyable treat for many reasons. Their rich, buttery flavor and chewy texture make them a comforting dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of sugars gives them a delightful caramel-like taste, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch.
What makes this recipe particularly special is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a delicious dessert that will impress family and friends. Plus, the recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a wonderful addition to any baker’s repertoire.
Whether you’re looking to reminisce about Southern hospitality or simply want to enjoy a delectable homemade treat, Pecan Chewies are a fantastic choice. Their delightful taste and texture are sure to make them a favorite in your household, just as they have become in mine. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious bars with your loved ones!
