Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of the classic pecan pie but looking for a faster, more convenient alternative, this pecan pie bark is the perfect treat! It captures the rich, sweet flavors of the beloved dessert in a simple, no-bake form. The combination of crunchy pecans, sweet caramelized sugar, and a smooth chocolate coating makes this bark irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, giving it as a gift, or just indulging in a snack, it’s sure to impress everyone!

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecan halves

• 1 cup unsalted butter

• 1 cup brown sugar, packed

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Spread the pecans out in an even layer on the baking sheet. Toast them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.

3. While the pecans are toasting, prepare the caramel. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the caramel has thickened slightly.

4. Once the pecans are toasted, remove them from the oven and immediately pour the caramel mixture over the top. Stir gently to coat the pecans evenly.

5. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.

6. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel-coated pecans, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.

7. Allow the bark to cool and set at room temperature for about 1-2 hours. You can also place it in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process.

8. Once set, break the bark into pieces and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12-15 pieces

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 20 minutes

• Cooling Time: 1-2 hours

Variations

• Chocolate Options: Try using milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor profile.

• Nut Substitutes: Swap the pecans for other nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique twist.

• Caramel Swirl: Drizzle some extra caramel on top of the chocolate layer before it sets for a swirled effect.

• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a cozy, spiced flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the pecan pie bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to store it for longer, refrigerate it for up to two weeks.

• Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this bark, but if you prefer it a bit softer, simply allow it to warm to room temperature before enjoying.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut for this recipe?

Yes! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews can be great alternatives to pecans in this bark.

Can I make this bark ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this bark ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to a week or two.

Is it necessary to toast the pecans?

Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and brings out their natural oils, making them more fragrant and crunchy. While you can skip this step, toasting is highly recommended for the best taste.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can make this bark vegan by using a dairy-free butter substitute and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

You can substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar, though this might slightly change the texture and flavor of the bark.

How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing up?

Make sure to melt the chocolate gently, stirring in short intervals, and avoid overheating. If the chocolate does seize, you can add a small amount of vegetable oil to smooth it out.

How long should I let the bark cool before breaking it?

Allow the bark to cool completely at room temperature for 1-2 hours, or refrigerate it to speed up the process.

Can I add other ingredients to the bark?

Feel free to add dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor.

How thick should the chocolate layer be?

A good rule of thumb is to spread the melted chocolate to a uniform layer that’s about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick for the best texture.

Can I freeze pecan pie bark?

Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap the bark tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Pecan pie bark is a delicious and easy alternative to the traditional pecan pie. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something sweet for yourself or need a quick and thoughtful gift, this bark is sure to satisfy. Enjoy the combination of buttery caramel, toasted pecans, and rich chocolate – it’s a bite-sized version of everything you love about pecan pie!

Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark

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• Author: Mia
• Total Time: 1.5-2 hours (including cooling)
• Yield: 12-15 pieces
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of pecan pie with this quick and easy Pecan Pie Bark! Featuring crunchy toasted pecans, sweet caramel, and rich chocolate, this no-bake treat is the perfect alternative to traditional pecan pie. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a gift, or just a personal snack, this pecan pie bark will be a hit. Simple to prepare with just a few ingredients, it’s a delightful dessert that combines the best of pecan pie in a bite-sized form.

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Ingredients

2 cups pecan halves

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Spread the pecans in a single layer on the baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• While the pecans toast, prepare the caramel by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened slightly.

• Once the pecans are toasted, remove them from the oven and pour the caramel mixture over the top. Stir to coat evenly.

• Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.

• Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel-coated pecans and spread it evenly.

• Let the bark cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours or refrigerate it to set faster.

• Once set, break the bark into pieces and enjoy!

Notes

1. For variation, try using milk chocolate or white chocolate instead of semi-sweet.
2. Substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews.
3. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramel for a spiced flavor.
4. Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Snack
• Method: No-bake, Oven
• Cuisine: American