Hicham Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a delectable dessert that combines a soft, buttery crust with a rich caramel pecan filling. These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday party, or just a sweet treat for yourself. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Caramel Pecan Dream Bars. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The soft and buttery crust made from yellow cake mix perfectly complements the gooey caramel filling with crunchy pecans and sweet bits o’ Brickle baking chips. These bars are easy to make and sure to impress anyone who tries them. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create these mouthwatering bars.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/3 cup soft margarine
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup bits o’ Brickle baking chips
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Crust Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, soft margarine, and egg. Mix until well combined and a dough forms.
- Press into Pan: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish to form the crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chopped pecans, and bits o’ Brickle baking chips. Stir until well mixed.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Add Filling: Pour the filling mixture over the crust and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 4: Serve
- Cut into Bars: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Caramel Pecan Dream Bars at room temperature. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Margarine vs. Butter: You can use butter instead of margarine if you prefer. The texture might be slightly different, but the taste will be just as delicious.
- Cooling: Ensure the bars are completely cooled before cutting to avoid a gooey mess.
Variations
- Chocolate Caramel Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the filling for a chocolatey twist.
- Coconut Pecan Bars: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the filling for a tropical flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make these bars gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use a different type of nuts?
A: Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nuts.
Q2: How do I store Caramel Pecan Dream Bars?
A: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Q3: Can I freeze these bars?
A: Yes, you can freeze Caramel Pecan Dream Bars. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Q4: Can I use a homemade caramel sauce instead of bits o’ Brickle baking chips?
A: Yes, you can drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the filling before baking. Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to avoid making the filling too runny.
Q5: What can I serve with these bars?
A: These bars are delicious on their own but can be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Caramel Pecan Dream Bars are a delicious and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery crust and rich caramel pecan filling, these bars are sure to be a hit. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a treat that your family and friends will love. Enjoy these indulgent bars with a cup of coffee or as a sweet end to your meal!
