Every time I bake a batch of Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the aroma of freshly baked treats wrapped around us like a warm hug. I can still hear her soft laughter as she taught me the magic that happens when sweet meets salty, especially in these delicious bars. There’s a reason why these treats are so special—they are a perfect blend of gooey chocolate, crunchy pecans, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that takes every bite to another level.
What sets my recipe apart from others is the simplicity of it, coupled with the rich, indulgent flavors that leave a lasting impression. Unlike store-bought desserts that can be overly sweet or lacking in texture, these bars balance everything just right, making them a true comfort food. They’re perfect for sharing at family gatherings or relishing during quiet evenings at home.
In this post, you’ll learn how to create your own Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars from scratch. I promise that once you take that first delectable bite, you’ll feel the same warm nostalgia that keeps drawing me back to this cherished recipe.
What Are Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars?
Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars boast a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, creating a unique treat that everyone will adore. Originating from the classic pecan pie, this dessert transforms those familiar flavors into a convenient bar format, making them easy to prepare and share.
The rich, buttery crust serves as the perfect base for a luscious filling made with brown sugar, maple syrup, and generous chocolate chunks. When baked to perfection, the bars develop a soft, chewy texture punctuated by the crunch of pecans, topped off with a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt that enhances every flavor.
These bars are perfect for any occasion that calls for a little indulgence, whether it’s a holiday gathering, a potluck, or simply a cozy evening at home. They are just the excuse to gather ‘round the table, share stories, and create memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor Combination: The rich sweetness of the caramel-like filling paired with salty notes creates a flavor profile that dances in your mouth. You’ll find it hard to stop at just one square!
- Cost-Effective Delight: Why buy overpriced desserts when you can whip up a batch of these bars for a fraction of the cost? With simple pantry staples, you can treat yourself and your loved ones without breaking the bank.
- Customization Options: Not a fan of pecans? Swap them for walnuts or almonds! Want to add a hint of spice? Toss in a dash of cinnamon or espresso powder for a delightful twist. Each tweak allows you to make this recipe truly your own.
- Easier Than You Think: Many store-bought options overwhelm with complicated ingredients and overly intricate processes, but this recipe is straightforward. With just a few steps, you’ll create a stunning dessert that’s simple yet impressive.
- Time-Saving Preparation: With a prep time of under 15 minutes and a bake time of around 30 minutes, these bars fit snugly into a busy schedule. Just think of it as a quick culinary escape that results in pure bliss.
Ingredients Section
To whip up these Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients, organized for your convenience:
For the Crust:
- 1 Tasse (Allzweckmehl): All-purpose flour (Can be substituted with 3/4 Tasse finely ground almond flour or 1 Tasse gluten-free 1:1 baking mix)
- 1/4 Tasse Kristallzucker: Granulated sugar
- 1/4 Tasse kalte Butter, gewürfelt: Cold, cubed butter (make sure it’s straight from the fridge for the best texture)
For the Filling:
- 3/4 Tasse Brauner Zucker: Brown sugar
- 2 große Eier: Large eggs (be sure they are at room temperature for better blending)
- 1/4 Tasse Ahornsirup: Maple syrup (look for pure maple syrup for the best flavor)
- 1 Teelöffel Vanillepaste oder Vanilleextrakt: Vanilla paste or extract (I love using Nielsen-Massey for its rich flavor)
- 1/2 Teelöffel Salz: Salt
- 2 Esslöffel geschmolzene Butter: Melted butter
- 1/2 Tasse gehackte Pekannüsse: Chopped pecans (roasting them beforehand will elevate the flavor)
- 1/2 Tasse Zartbitterschokoladenstückchen: Semisweet chocolate chips (I love Ghirardelli for their quality)
- 1/2 Tasse ganze Pekannüsse, zum Garnieren: Whole pecans for topping
- Flockiges Meersalz, zum Garnieren: Flaky sea salt for sprinkling on top
Prep Notes:
- Make sure your butter is cold for the crust to ensure it creates a nice flaky texture.
- If you’re allergic or prefer a nut-free option, feel free to omit nuts altogether or try seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Gently fold in the melted butter, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Arrange whole pecans on top and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until set and slightly puffed.
- Cool & Serve: Allow the bars to cool in the pan before sprinkling with flaky sea salt. Once completely cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment and cut into squares. Enjoy with a big cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk!
Chef’s Tips:
- For the crust, ensure your butter is very cold—not room temperature. This will contribute to a nice flaky texture.
- Keep an eye on the bars in the final baking stage; they should be set in the center but slightly wobbly is a good sign of a chewy texture!
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Storage Recommendations: Keep the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to 10 days. Freezing is an option, too! Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Make-Ahead Instructions: You can prepare the crust a day in advance and keep it stored until you’re ready to bake the filling. This way, the flavors meld beautifully.
- Troubleshooting: If your bars come out too gooey, they may need a bit longer in the oven. Trust your nose—once they smell heavenly, they’re likely almost done!
- Elevate Your Pecan Flavor: Toasting your pecans for about 5-7 minutes before adding them will unlock more depth of flavor in your bars.
- Keep It Simple or Go Gourmet: You can top your bars with additional toppings like whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a dessert that would impress even the most discerning guests.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat, or serve with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For coffee lovers, bring out the rich flavors by pairing these bars with a robust espresso. Presentation-wise, you can drizzle some warm chocolate sauce on top or pile them high with pecans and fresh berries for a pop of color and freshness.
These bars are ideal for cozy gatherings or celebrating milestones. They’re as at home on a picnic table as they are at a dinner party.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Nut-Free Version: Swap the nuts for sunflower seeds or just increase the chocolate chips for added richness.
- Seasonal Flavors: In fall, add pumpkin spice to the filling for a seasonal twist. During the holidays, consider integrating crushed peppermint for a festive touch.
- Fruit Additions: Fold dried fruits like cranberries or cherries into the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
Let your creativity shine with each batch!
Nutrition & Storage Info
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings (based on cutting into squares)
- Estimated Calories per Serving: Approximately 220 calories
- Storage Instructions: Room temperature: up to 5 days; Fridge: up to 10 days; Freezer: up to 3 months.
FAQ Section
- Can I use a different type of flour? Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour, coconut flour (adjust the moisture), or use a gluten-free baking mix.
- Can I make these bars without chocolate? Absolutely! While chocolate is a star ingredient, you can create a pecan-only version if desired or substitute with butterscotch chips.
- What can I use instead of pecans? Walnuts or almonds also work beautifully. Just be sure to adjust the toasting time as needed.
- How can I tell when my bars are done baking? They should be set in the center but will have a slight jiggle. They will firm up as they cool!
- Can I freeze leftover bars? Yes! Be sure to wrap them tightly and store them in an airtight container. They should last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- Can I add fruits to the filling? Definitely! Dried fruit like cranberries or figs can add a nice touch of sweetness.
- What’s the best way to cut these bars? Use a sharp knife, and for cleaner cuts, run it under hot water and dry it off before slicing.
- How do I store the leftovers? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for freshness.
- Can I double this recipe? Sure! Just make sure to use a larger pan and adjust the baking time as needed.
- Are these bars suitable for gifting? Absolutely! They make delightful treats for friends and family wrapped in festive packaging.
Conclusion
These Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars are more than just a dessert—they’re a slice of nostalgia blended with exciting flavors and textures that everyone will love. I encourage you to gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this sweet adventure. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Please share your thoughts and any family modifications that made it even better. And don’t forget to explore my blog for more delicious recipes that are perfect for any occasion! Happy baking!
Salted Chocolate Pecan Bars
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 Tasse All-purpose flour Can be substituted with 3/4 Tasse finely ground almond flour or 1 Tasse gluten-free 1:1 baking mix.
- 1/4 Tasse Granulated sugar
- 1/4 Tasse Cold, cubed butter Make sure it’s straight from the fridge for the best texture.
For the Filling
- 3/4 Tasse Brown sugar
- 2 große Eier Ensure they are at room temperature for better blending.
- 1/4 Tasse Maple syrup Look for pure maple syrup for the best flavor.
- 1 Teelöffel Vanilla paste or extract Using Nielsen-Massey for its rich flavor is recommended.
- 1/2 Teelöffel Salt
- 2 Esslöffel Melted butter
- 1/2 Tasse Chopped pecans Roasting them beforehand enhances the flavor.
- 1/2 Tasse Semisweet chocolate chips Ghirardelli is recommended for quality.
- 1/2 Tasse Whole pecans for topping
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a 20×20 cm (8×8 inch) baking pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and cold, cubed butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Gently fold in the melted butter, chopped pecans, and chocolate chips.
- Pour the filling over the pre-baked crust, smoothing it out with a spatula. Arrange whole pecans on top and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, until set and slightly puffed.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan before sprinkling with flaky sea salt. Once cooled, lift the bars out using the parchment and cut into squares.