Chocolate Pecan Bars

Decadent Chocolate Pecan Bars

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Are you on the hunt for a dessert that brings the warm, comforting flavors of Chocolate Pecan Bars to your holiday table? This recipe combines the beloved nuttiness of traditional pecan pie bars with rich chocolate, making it perfect for seasonal gatherings, potlucks, or even as a special gift.

With more nuts, less filling, and a smooth chocolate topping, Chocolate Pecan Bars are an easy-to-make dessert that is sure to impress. Let’s get started!

Recipe Card

  • Recipe Name: Chocolate Pecan Bars
  • Description: Chocolate Pecan Bars are a delicious twist on traditional pecan pie bars, with more nuts, less filling, and a smooth chocolate topping. These bars are perfect for holiday gatherings.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 24 bars
  • Calories: 238 per bar

Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup cold butter

For the Nut Layer:

  • 1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup dark corn syrup
  • 1 1/3 cups roughly chopped pecans

For the Chocolate Topping:

  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips
  • 3 tbsp butter

Instructions

Prepare the Base for Your Chocolate Pecan Bars

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (or 325°F if using glass bakeware).
  2. In a medium bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. (A food processor works well for this step if you have one.)
  3. Press this crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×9 inch greased and parchment-lined pan.
  4. Bake for 15 minutes until the edges start to look golden.

Make the Nutty Filling

  1. In a mixing bowl, stir together the brown sugar and flour to prevent any lumps.
  2. Add eggs, vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and dark corn syrup, whisking until smooth.
  3. Let the mixture stand for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Fold in the chopped pecans and pour over the warm crust.

Bake the Chocolate Pecan Bars

  1. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the nuts are golden.
  2. Take it out of the oven and let it cool completely before topping.

Add the Chocolate Layer

  1. Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat. Add the chocolate chips and stir until smooth.
  2. Spread this chocolate topping evenly over the cooled pecan layer. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature.

Slice and Enjoy

Once the chocolate layer has hardened, use the parchment to lift the bars from the pan. Cut into squares with a sharp knife and serve your Chocolate Pecan Bars!

Notes

  • For the best texture, avoid chopping pecans too finely; a rough chop works best.
  • Lining the pan with parchment paper makes it easier to lift and cut the Chocolate Pecan Bars neatly.

Nutrition Information (per bar)

  • Calories: 238
  • Total Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 69mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 22g
  • Protein: 2g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, Nutty, and Chocolatey: Combines the best of pecan pie with a smooth chocolate finish.
  • Easy to Make: With a straightforward method, Chocolate Pecan Bars are beginner-friendly.
  • Holiday-Ready: Perfect for any holiday dessert spread or gift basket.
  • Make Ahead and Freeze: Bake ahead; they freeze well for up to three months.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

  • Pecans: Essential for flavor and texture. Walnuts or hazelnuts can be used, though the flavor will change.
  • Dark Corn Syrup: Provides a gooey consistency. Maple syrup can be used for a lighter taste.
  • Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet or dark chocolate balances sweetness well. Milk chocolate can be used for a sweeter top layer.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

Line your baking dish with parchment paper to make it easier to lift out the bars after cooling.

Step 2: Create the Crust

Combine flour, sugar, and butter to form a buttery, crumbly base. Bake after pressing firmly into the baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

Whisk brown sugar, flour, eggs, dark corn syrup, and pecans for a nutty filling. Pour over the pre-baked crust.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake until the filling is set, then allow the bars to cool completely.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate Topping

Melt chocolate chips with butter until smooth, then spread over the nut filling. Let the chocolate set completely.

Expert Tips for Success

  • Chill Before Slicing: For clean slices, refrigerate the bars before cutting.
  • Use High-Quality Chocolate: High-quality chocolate chips enhance the flavor.
  • Check for Doneness: Bars are ready when the edges are golden and the filling is firm.

Variations and Customizations

  • Add a Caramel Layer: For added richness, drizzle caramel over the nut layer before adding the chocolate.
  • Try Different Nuts: Walnuts or hazelnuts make a great twist.
  • Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

  • Storing: Store in the refrigerator for up to a week or at room temperature for up to five days in an airtight container.
  • Freezing: These bars freeze beautifully! Keep them in an airtight container for up to three months.
  • Reheating: If frozen, allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chocolate Pecan Bars on a dessert platter with other holiday treats, or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. They also make a thoughtful homemade gift when wrapped individually.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can these Chocolate Pecan Bars be frozen?
A: Yes, they freeze well! Simply store them in an airtight container for up to three months.

Q: Can I use milk chocolate for the topping?
A: Absolutely! Milk chocolate is sweeter, but semi-sweet or dark chocolate provides a balanced contrast.

Q: Do I need to toast the pecans beforehand?
A: Toasting isn’t necessary but can enhance the nutty flavor. Allow them to cool before adding to the filling if you do toast them.

If you enjoyed Chocolate Pecan Bars, here are some other recipes you might love:

  • Classic Pecan Pie Bars: Stick with the traditional version for a classic dessert.
  • Maple Walnut Bars: Featuring maple syrup and walnuts for a Canadian twist.
  • Coconut Dream Bars: For a chewy, coconut-filled treat.

Conclusion

Chocolate Pecan Bars combine the nutty warmth of pecans with a smooth chocolate finish, making them an ideal addition to any holiday dessert lineup. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these bars are sure to become a family favorite. So why wait? Bake a batch and enjoy these irresistible Chocolate Pecan Bars!

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