Introduction
Indulging in a delightful treat has never been easier! This recipe combines the rich flavors of caramel, pecans, and sugar cookie dough to create a delicious dessert that is sure to please. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet night in, these bars are simple to make and equally satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
16.5-ounce roll of refrigerated sugar cookie dough
½ cup caramel sundae topping
3 tablespoons caramel sundae topping
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon kosher sea salt
1 cup halved pecans
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
50 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 5 minutes
Yield
Serves 16 bars
Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures with these easy-to-make caramel pecan cookie bars!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by spraying it generously with non-stick spray to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough Base
Set aside ½ cup of the refrigerated sugar cookie dough. Take the remaining dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form a solid crust.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Caramel Mixture
While the crust is baking, take a small bowl and combine ½ cup of caramel sundae topping with 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Mix the ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth.
Step 5: Spread the Caramel Mixture
Once the crust is done baking, remove it from the oven. Carefully spread the caramel mixture over the top of the baked crust, making sure to stop just before reaching the edges.
Step 6: Add Pecans and Dough Topping
Sprinkle half of the halved pecans over the caramel layer, distributing them evenly. Then, break the reserved ½ cup of cookie dough into small pieces and sprinkle them over the pecans. Follow this by adding the remaining pecans on top.
Step 7: Bake Again
Return the assembled pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is light golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Drizzle
After baking, allow the dish to cool for at least one hour. Once cooled, drizzle the remaining 3 tablespoons of caramel topping over the top of the bars and sprinkle with kosher sea salt for added flavor.
Step 9: Cut and Serve
Using a sharp knife, cut the cooled dessert into bars. Serve and enjoy the delicious treats!
Notes
Storage
Store any leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Customizations
Feel free to substitute pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds, and you can also add chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These bars can be served warm or cold and are perfect paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Baking Pan
Ensure your 8×8-inch pan is well coated with non-stick spray to prevent sticking, allowing for easy removal of the bars once baked.
Pressing the Cookie Dough
When pressing the cookie dough into the pan, use your fingers or the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer, which helps in baking uniformly.
Checking for Doneness
Keep an eye on the crust as it bakes, looking for a lightly golden brown color to indicate it’s time to add the caramel layer.
Combining Ingredients
Make sure to mix the caramel topping and flour thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency, which prevents clumping and ensures even distribution on the crust.
Layering for Texture
When sprinkling the pecans and cookie dough pieces, aim for an even distribution to achieve a balanced flavor and texture in each bite.
Cooling the Bars
Allowing the bars to cool for at least an hour is crucial for setting the caramel and making the bars easier to cut without falling apart.
Drizzling the Caramel
For a beautiful finish, use a spoon to drizzle the remaining caramel topping over the cooled bars, adding an aesthetic touch and enhancing the flavor.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred, keeping in mind that it may alter the flavor profile slightly.
Is it possible to make these bars gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free cookie dough and flour to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.
What can I do if I don’t have caramel sundae topping?
You can make a homemade caramel sauce if you don’t have store-bought or use a different sweet topping like chocolate sauce.
How do I store the leftover bars?
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I freeze the bars?
Yes, you can freeze the bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to maintain quality, and they can be frozen for up to three months.
Conclusion
These delicious caramel pecan cookie bars offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. With their buttery crust, rich caramel layer, and crunchy pecans, they are sure to please both family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Substitute the sugar cookie dough with chocolate chip cookie dough for a classic twist!
Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
Add a layer of peanut butter to your crust before the caramel for a creamy, nutty flavor.
Apple Cinnamon Crumble Bars
Use a layer of sliced apples and sprinkle cinnamon sugar over caramel for a fall-inspired treat.
Coconut Cream Bars
Incorporate shredded coconut into the crust and topping for a tropical flair.
Mint Chocolate Cookie Bars
Mix in mint extract to the sugar cookie dough and top with chocolate drizzle for a refreshing twist.
