Caramel Pecan Cream Bars

If you’re a fan of indulgent desserts, Caramel Pecan Cream Bars are about to become your new obsession. Imagine a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust, topped with a rich, creamy layer, and finished off with gooey caramel and toasted pecans. It’s like a little slice of heaven in every bite, and trust me, once you try them, you won’t be able to stop at just one.

These bars are everything you love about caramel and nuts, but with a creamy twist that takes them to a whole new level. Whether you’re bringing them to a party or just treating yourself to something sweet, these bars will never disappoint.

Why You’ll Love Caramel Pecan Cream Bars

• Decadent layers: Buttery crust, creamy filling, and a caramel-pecan topping—what’s not to love?
• Easy to make: No need for complicated techniques—just simple ingredients for a big payoff.
• Perfect for any occasion: From holidays to casual get-togethers, these bars are a crowd favorite.
• Make-ahead: Prep them in advance and keep them in the fridge for a sweet treat whenever you need it.
• Rich and indulgent: The combination of caramel and pecans is pure comfort in dessert form.

Ingredients for Caramel Pecan Cream Bars

For the crust:

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Butter (unsalted, softened)
• Egg

For the cream filling:

• Cream cheese (softened)
• Powdered sugar
• Heavy cream
• Vanilla extract

For the topping:

• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Chopped pecans (toasted)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and butter until crumbly. Add the egg and stir until the mixture comes together. Press the dough into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool.

Step 2: Make the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and smooth. Spread the cream mixture over the cooled crust in an even layer.

Step 3: Add the Topping

Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the cream filling. Then, sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly on top. You can lightly toast the pecans for extra flavor if you prefer.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours (or overnight) to allow them to set. Cut into squares and enjoy the creamy, nutty, and caramel-rich goodness.

Nutrition Facts (Per serving – approx.)

• Calories: ~300
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 21g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 21g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fiber: 1g

Tips & Variations

• Add chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a little extra indulgence.
• Use other nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour for the crust to cater to gluten-sensitive guests.
• Serve warm: For a slightly different twist, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these bars in advance?

A1: Yes! They’re perfect for making ahead. Just store them in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

A2: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They also freeze well for up to 1 month.

Q3: Can I use a different type of nut?

A3: Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts would work wonderfully in place of pecans.

Q4: Is the caramel sauce homemade?

A4: You can use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience, or make your own for a richer flavor.

Q5: Can I make these bars dairy-free?

A5: To make these bars dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and a dairy-free caramel sauce.

Q6: How can I make the crust more flavorful?

A6: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of salt to the crust for an extra flavor boost.

Q7: Can I use a different size baking dish?

A7: Yes, but the baking time may vary depending on the size of your dish. Keep an eye on the crust and check for doneness.

Q8: What if I don’t like cream cheese?

A8: You can replace the cream cheese filling with a vanilla pudding mix for a lighter, custard-like filling.

Q9: Can I serve these bars warm?

A9: While they’re best chilled, you can serve them slightly warmed for a gooey, comforting treat.

Q10: Can I use a store-bought crust?

A10: Sure! If you’re short on time, a pre-made graham cracker or shortbread crust works as a quick alternative.

Conclusion

These Caramel Pecan Cream Bars are everything you want in a dessert—rich, creamy, and bursting with caramel and nuts. With layers of buttery goodness, smooth cream filling, and a perfect crunchy topping, they’re a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Easy to make, but oh-so-impressive, these bars are perfect for a sweet treat that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Go ahead, take a bite—you’re going to love these!

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