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There’s something magical about the combination of crunchy pecans, buttery caramelized goodness, and rich chocolate in this Pecan Pie Bark. If you love the classic flavors of pecan pie but want an easy, no-fuss treat, this recipe is for you! Imagine the perfect blend of sweet and salty with a delightful crunch in every bite—ideal for the holidays, gifting, or just indulging at home.
With just a handful of ingredients and a simple oven-baked method, you’ll have a batch of this irresistible homemade candy ready in no time. So, are you ready to transform pecan pie into a crave-worthy, snackable treat? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of rich, caramelized pecans and crave the crunch of homemade candy, this Pecan Pie Bark will quickly become your go-to treat. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy & Quick – No rolling out pie dough or complicated steps! This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re making a batch for the holidays, a party, or just a cozy night in, this bark is a crowd-pleaser every time.
- Addictively Crunchy – A buttery toffee layer combined with toasted pecans and a crisp base creates an irresistible texture.
- Great for Gifting – Package it up in festive bags or tins for a homemade gift that’s as delicious as it is thoughtful.
- Customizable – Love chocolate? Want a hint of sea salt? You can easily tweak this recipe to match your favorite flavors!
Once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this sweet and salty treat is so hard to resist. Ready to make your own? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Bark
To create this irresistible pecan pie bark, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together for the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and crunchy goodness. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Base:
- 12 graham cracker sheets – Provides a sturdy, crisp foundation.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped – Adds crunch and that signature nutty flavor.
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Creates a rich, buttery caramel.
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed – Gives the bark a deep caramelized sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the caramel’s flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
For the Topping:
- 1 cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark) – Melts into a luscious layer.
- Sea salt (optional) – A sprinkle enhances the sweet-and-salty contrast.
Ingredient Tips:
✔ Use high-quality chocolate for a smooth, rich finish.
✔ Lightly toast the pecans for extra depth of flavor.
✔ Swap graham crackers with saltine crackers for a sweet-and-salty twist.
With these ingredients prepped, you’re ready to bring this delicious homemade candy to life! Let’s move on to the easy step-by-step process.
How to Make Pecan Pie Bark
Making pecan pie bark is surprisingly simple, and the result is a crunchy, caramelized treat that tastes just like pecan pie—without all the work! Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of sweet and buttery goodness.
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the graham crackers in a single layer, covering the entire surface. Break them as needed to fit snugly.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly for 3–4 minutes until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt for extra depth of flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Bark
- Pour the hot caramel evenly over the graham crackers, using a spatula to spread it out.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top, pressing them slightly into the caramel.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.
- Keep a close eye to prevent burning!
Step 5: Add the Chocolate Layer
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel.
- Let them sit for 2–3 minutes, then use a spatula to gently spread the melted chocolate.
- For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle with sea salt while the chocolate is still warm.
Step 6: Cool and Break into Pieces
- Let the bark cool at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then transfer to the fridge to set completely.
- Once hardened, break into bite-sized pieces and enjoy!
Now, get ready to savor the perfect blend of crunchy, buttery, and chocolatey goodness!
Pro Tips and Variations
Mastering Pecan Pie Bark is easy, but a few simple tweaks can take it to the next level. Whether you want a crunchier texture, a richer flavor, or a fun twist, these tips and variations will help you make the perfect batch every time!
Pro Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Bark
✔ Line your baking sheet with parchment paper – This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
✔ Boil the caramel for exactly 3 minutes – This ensures the perfect consistency—thick enough to coat the crackers but not too hard after cooling.
✔ Spread the caramel quickly – It sets fast, so work efficiently to coat the graham
crackers evenly
✔ Chill before breaking – Let the bark set completely in the fridge for a crisp, clean break.
Delicious Variations to Try
⭐ Salted Caramel Pecan Bark – Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the melted chocolate for a sweet-and-salty contrast.
⭐ White Chocolate Drizzle – Swirl melted white chocolate on top for a decorative touch.
⭐ Extra Crunch – Add a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts for a nuttier twist.
⭐ Pumpkin Spice Pecan Bark – Stir ½ teaspoon pumpkin spice into the caramel for a cozy, seasonal flavor.
⭐ Dark Chocolate Lover’s Edition – Swap semi-sweet chocolate for dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense taste.
Experiment with these ideas to make this crave-worthy homemade candy uniquely yours. No matter which version you try, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
If you loved the Pecan Pie Bark, you’ll absolutely want to try the Pecan Cream Pie Recipe for the Ultimate Indulgence! With its rich, creamy texture and irresistible pecan flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Pecan Pie Bark is more than just a treat—it’s a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying a sweet pick-me-up, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it!
Ways to Serve Pecan Pie Bark
As a Standalone Treat – Break it into bite-sized pieces and serve on a dessert platter for an easy, no-fuss indulgence.
Paired with Coffee or Hot Chocolate – The rich caramel and chocolate flavors pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or creamy hot cocoa.
Crumbled Over Ice Cream – Sprinkle chunks over vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a crunchy, caramel-infused topping.
Packaged as a Homemade Gift – Wrap pieces in a decorative tin or a clear bag with a ribbon for a thoughtful, edible gift during the holidays.
Layered into Desserts – Use it as a crunchy layer in trifles, parfaits, or even as a topping for cheesecakes.
No matter how you enjoy it, this sweet, crunchy, and buttery bark is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it up and watch it disappear!
f you can’t get enough of pecan desserts, you’ll love the Classic Pecan Pie: A Sweet Southern Tradition! This timeless recipe delivers the perfect balance of rich, gooey filling and crunchy pecans in a flaky, buttery crust.
Storage Tips
Keeping your Pecan Pie Bark fresh and delicious is easy with the right storage methods. Follow these simple tips to maintain its crunchy texture and rich flavors for as long as possible.
Short-Term Storage
🔹 Room Temperature – Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. Keep it in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
🔹 Refrigeration – If your kitchen is warm, place the bark in the fridge to keep the chocolate firm and caramel crisp. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating for the best texture.
Long-Term Storage
Freezing for Extended Freshness – Want to enjoy your pecan pie bark later? Freeze it!
- Place pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container, placing parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Enjoy After Freezing – Let the bark thaw at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before eating to restore its perfect crunch.
With proper storage, you’ll have a sweet, crunchy treat ready whenever cravings strike!
Pecan Pie Bark
Ingredients
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Bark
- 12 graham crackers enough to cover the baking sheet
- 1 cup unsalted butter 2 sticks
- 1 cup brown sugar light or dark, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup chocolate chips semi-sweet or dark
- Optional Add-ins:
- ½ teaspoon sea salt for a salted caramel twist
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon for extra warmth
- ½ cup white chocolate chips for drizzling
Instructions
Instructions for Making Pecan Pie Bark
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Arrange graham crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there are no gaps.
- Make the caramel topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar, stirring continuously until it becomes smooth and bubbly (about 3–5 minutes).
- Pour the caramel evenly over the graham crackers, spreading it out with a spatula to fully cover them.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans generously over the caramel layer, ensuring even distribution.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until the caramel is bubbling and slightly darkened.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let them sit for a minute to soften, then spread the melted chocolate evenly.
- Let the bark cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for faster setting (about 30–60 minutes).
- Break into pieces and enjoy your pecan pie bark!
FAQs
Got questions about making the perfect Pecan Pie Bark? Here are some common concerns and expert tips to help you get the best results every time!
1. Why is my caramel too runny or too hard?
Caramel consistency depends on timing. Make sure to boil the butter and brown sugar mixture for exactly 3 minutes—this allows it to thicken just right. If it’s too runny, it needed more time; if too hard, it cooked too long.
2. Can I use a different type of cracker?
Absolutely! While graham crackers give a classic sweet flavor, you can swap them for saltine crackers for a sweet-and-salty contrast or digestive biscuits for a rich, buttery base.
3. How do I prevent my pecan pie bark from sticking?
Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat is key. This makes it easier to lift and break into pieces once cooled.
4. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! Pecan Pie Bark stores well for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature or even longer in the fridge. It’s a great make-ahead treat for parties and gifts.
5. Can I freeze pecan pie bark?
Yes! To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight, freezer-safe bag with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
6. How do I get clean, even pieces?
For the best break, let the bark cool completely, then use your hands to snap it into rustic, bite-sized pieces or a knife for more uniform squares.
With these tips, you’re all set to make a perfect batch of pecan pie bark every time! Let me know how it turns out!