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Pecan Pie Bark

My church friends love making this recipe and it always runs out

by Maria
Pecan Pie Bark

SHARING IS CARING!

 

This Pecan Pie Bark is the perfect treat for the holiday season or anytime you’re craving something sweet, buttery, and nutty! It combines a crunchy cracker base with a caramelized pecan topping that tastes just like pecan pie in every bite. Best of all, it’s quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients, making it perfect for gifting or snacking. This bark is a must-try if you love the flavors of caramel and toasted pecans!

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Bark

  • Rich and Buttery Flavor: The combination of brown sugar, butter, and pecans gives this bark an indulgent, caramel-like flavor with a satisfying crunch.
  • Quick and Simple: With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, you can have a delicious homemade treat ready in under an hour.
  • Perfect for Gifting: Pack it up in a cute box or bag, and you have an irresistible holiday gift that everyone will love.
  • Versatile Base: This recipe uses saltine crackers for a perfectly crisp base, but you can also swap them out for graham crackers or even matzo for a different twist.

Ingredients

(Serves 8-10)

  • 40 saltine crackers (about one sleeve)
  • 225g (1 cup) unsalted butter
  • 200g (1 cup) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 200g (2 cups) pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • Optional: melted chocolate for drizzling

Directions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, ensuring it covers the entire surface, and spray lightly with non-stick spray.
  2. Arrange the Crackers: Lay the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface.
  3. Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
  4. Add the Pecans: Stir the chopped pecans into the caramel sauce until they’re fully coated.
  5. Pour and Spread: Carefully pour the pecan caramel mixture over the crackers, spreading it evenly with a spatula to cover all the crackers.
  6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the pecans are golden.
  7. Cool and Break: Remove from the oven and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break the bark into pieces. If desired, drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness.

Pecan Pie Bark

Notes

  • Substitutions: You can use graham crackers or matzo instead of saltines for a different base flavor and texture.
  • Storage: Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge if you prefer it extra crunchy.
  • Add Chocolate: Melt some semi-sweet chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled bark for a richer, more decadent flavor.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Absolutely! While pecans give it that classic flavor, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute.

Q: How long does it take to set?
A: The bark will typically set in about 30 minutes at room temperature, or you can place it in the fridge for faster cooling.

Q: Can I freeze Pecan Pie Bark?
A: Yes! You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just let it come to room temperature before serving.

Tips and Notes

  • Watch the Caramel: Be careful not to overcook the caramel sauce. If it cooks too long, it can become too hard once set.
  • Use High-Quality Butter: Since butter is a main ingredient, using a high-quality butter will enhance the flavor and richness of the bark.

Pecan Pie Bark

Fun Variations for Your Pecan Pie Bark – Try Something New!

  • Chocolate Pecan Bark: After baking, sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot bark. Let them melt and spread evenly for a chocolate layer beneath the pecans.
  • Maple Pecan Bark: Replace the brown sugar with maple syrup for a hint of maple flavor that pairs perfectly with the pecans.
  • Sea Salt Caramel: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the caramel-coated pecans before baking for a sweet and salty contrast.
  • Spiced Pecan Bark: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Pecan Pie Bark

Pecan Pie Bark

This Pecan Pie Bark is an addictive, sweet treat that combines the flavors of classic pecan pie with the ease of a bark. Made with a buttery caramel pecan topping over a crispy cracker base, this treat is perfect for holidays, parties, or whenever you’re craving something crunchy and sweet. It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit with everyone!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 20

Ingredients
  

  • 1 sleeve about 35 saltine crackers or graham crackers
  • 1 cup 0.5 lb unsalted butter
  • 1 cup 0.5 lb brown sugar, packed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cups 0.37 lb pecans, chopped
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Optional: Chocolate chips for drizzling or melting on top

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Arrange the crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet to form a base.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Pecan Topping

  • In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir until the butter is melted, and bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Let it boil for 2–3 minutes without stirring until it turns a caramel color. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and salt.

Step 3: Pour Over the Crackers

  • Pour the hot caramel pecan mixture evenly over the crackers, spreading it gently to cover all the crackers.

Step 4: Bake the Bark

  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes or until the topping is bubbly and the crackers are slightly golden.

Step 5: Optional Chocolate Drizzle

  • If desired, sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot pecan mixture and let them sit for a few minutes to melt. Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate over the bark.

Step 6: Cool and Break Into Pieces

  • Allow the pecan pie bark to cool completely, then break it into pieces. You can place it in the refrigerator to speed up the cooling process.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
  • Variations: Try using graham crackers or Ritz crackers as a base for a different flavor twist.
  • Serving Tip: This bark is perfect for holiday gifting or as an easy dessert for parties and gatherings.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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