Pecan Pie Bark is a delightful twist on the classic pecan pie, transformed into an easy-to-make, crunchy, and addictive treat. With a caramel-like layer, buttery pecans, and a crispy cracker base, this bark offers the rich flavors of pecan pie in a convenient, shareable format. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings, gifting, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home. This recipe is simple enough for beginner bakers and delivers a big reward for minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve of saltine crackers (about 40 crackers)
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Optional: melted chocolate for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and spray it lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, covering the entire surface.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil. Let it boil for 3 minutes without stirring. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour Over Crackers: Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture over the saltine crackers, using a spatula to spread it evenly so all the crackers are coated.
- Add Pecans and Bake: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the caramel-covered crackers. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling and the pecans are slightly toasted.
- Cool and Set: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool completely at room temperature, or place it in the refrigerator for faster cooling. Once completely cooled and hardened, break the bark into pieces.
- Optional Chocolate Drizzle: If desired, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pecan bark for an extra layer of flavor. Let the chocolate set before serving.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bark
- Line the Baking Sheet: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper or foil makes for easy cleanup and ensures the bark won’t stick.
- Use Fresh Pecans: Fresh, high-quality pecans will provide the best flavor. Lightly toasting the pecans before sprinkling them over the caramel can add an extra depth of flavor.
- Cool Completely: Allow the bark to cool completely before breaking it into pieces. This ensures that the caramel sets properly, giving you that nice, crisp texture.
Recipe Variations
- Graham Cracker Base: Instead of saltine crackers, use graham crackers for a slightly sweeter base.
- Chocolate Lovers’ Bark: Melt semi-sweet or dark chocolate and drizzle it generously over the cooled bark. You can even add a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast.
- Nutty Mix: Replace half of the pecans with chopped walnuts or almonds for a mixed-nut version.
- Cinnamon Pecan Bark: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the caramel mixture for a warm, spiced flavor that pairs well with the pecans.
FAQs
Q: Can I use different crackers as the base?
A: Yes, graham crackers or Ritz crackers can be used as a base for a slightly different texture and flavor.
Q: How do I store Pecan Pie Bark?
A: Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks.
Q: Can I freeze Pecan Pie Bark?
A: Yes! Pecan Pie Bark freezes well. Just place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Pecan Pie Bark is an easy and delicious treat that captures the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie in a simple, snackable format. With its caramel coating, crunchy pecans, and crispy base, this dessert is sure to become a favorite for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving something sweet and crunchy. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or giving as a homemade gift. Try this recipe and enjoy a sweet twist on a classic favorite!