Indulge in the sweet, nutty flavors of homemade pecan pie bark, a delightful twist on the classic pie that transforms its essence into a delectable, crunchy treat. This recipe is not only simple to make but also serves as a perfect snack for any occasion. Whether you’re craving something sweet or need a quick dessert for unexpected guests, this pecan pie bark is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 13 graham crackers
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups pecan halves, roughly chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms, take a rimmed sheet pan and line it with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Lightly grease the foil with butter to ensure your pecan pie bark will release effortlessly once cooled.
Step 2: Arrange the Base
Next, create the foundation of your bark by lining the greased baking sheet with graham crackers. Arrange them snugly, breaking pieces as necessary to cover the entire surface of the pan. This will form the crisp base of your bark and add a delightful texture to complement the pecan topping.
Step 3: Craft the Caramel Pecan Topping
In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, pecans, and salt. Place over medium heat and stir the mixture until it reaches a rolling boil. Maintain the boil for two minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to ensure a smooth caramel. The rich aroma of butter and sugar will soon fill your kitchen, signaling that your topping is almost ready.
Step 4: Add Vanilla Essence
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the vanilla extract. This will infuse your caramel pecan mixture with a warm, aromatic depth of flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the hot caramel pecan mixture over the arranged graham crackers on your baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges, ensuring that every inch of the graham crackers is covered with the sweet, nutty topping. The pecans should be well distributed for a consistent crunch in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Slide your pan into the preheated oven and bake until the entire surface is bubbly and golden, which should take about 10 minutes. The bubbling ensures that the caramel is cooking into a perfect consistency to hold the pecans in place once cooled.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
After removing from the oven, allow your pecan pie bark to cool completely on the sheet pan. Once it’s set, break it into irregular pieces, mimicking the look of traditional bark found in nature. The result is a beautiful array of sweet shards ready to be enjoyed.
Your homemade pecan pie bark is now ready to serve! Share it with friends and family, or keep it all to yourself—we won’t tell. This treat not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a touch of rustic elegance to any dessert table. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the praise that will surely come with every bite of this crunchy, caramel-infused delight.