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Delicious creamy cocoa pecan squares stacked on a plate

Chocolate Pecan Bars

A delightful treat that combines rich chocolate and pecans into perfectly gooey, chewy bars, ideal for family gatherings and special occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 275
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour Main structure of the crust.
  • 1/3 cup sugar Sweetens the crust.
  • 3 tbsp butter Provides a creamy base for the crust.
For the filling
  • 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar Adds a deep, caramel sweetness.
  • 3 tbsp flour Helps thicken the filling.
  • 2 large eggs Provides moisture and richness.
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract Adds aromatic flavor.
  • Pinch salt Balances sweetness.
  • 1 cup corn syrup Gives a lovely gooey texture.
  • 1 1/3 cups roughly chopped pecans Adds nutty crunch.
  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips Adds rich chocolate flavor.
For the chocolate topping
  • 3 tbsp butter Used for melting with chocolate.

Method
 

Preparation of the Pan
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F for aluminum bakeware and 325°F for glass bakeware.
  2. Grease a 9x9 inch baking pan and optionally line it with parchment paper.
Making the Crust
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups flour and 1/3 cup sugar.
  2. Rub in the butter until the mixture resembles a dry, coarse meal.
Baking the Crust
  1. Evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of your prepared pan and bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Preparing the Filling
  1. Mix 3 tbsp flour with the brown sugar in a separate bowl to avoid lumps.
  2. Whisk in the eggs, vanilla extract, salt, and corn syrup thoroughly.
Resting the Filling
  1. Allow the mixture to stand for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Combining with Pecans
  1. Stir in the chopped pecans before pouring this topping over the hot baked crust.
Final Baking
  1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, until the filling is firm and the pecans are golden brown.
Cooling
  1. Let the pan cool to room temperature and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
Creating the Chocolate Topping
  1. Melt 3 tbsp butter in a saucepan over low heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring constantly until smooth.
Finishing Touches
  1. Pour the melted chocolate over the cooled pecan bars and spread it evenly.
  2. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature.
Cutting the Bars
  1. Use a sharp serrated knife to cut the bars into smaller sizes.

Notes

For a delightful twist, sprinkle sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. Ensure the bars are completely cooled before cutting for best results. Substitute half the chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a deeper flavor. For greater indulgence, an extra layer of chocolate ganache can be made with heavy cream.