Carolina Pecan Bars

When it comes to delicious baked goods, a southern recipe will seldom let you down, and this recipe is no exception! While the origins of these Carolina Pecan Bars might be a mystery, with their buttery goodness and toasted pecans, they certainly belong in a southern grandmother’s cherished recipe collection. Rich and decadent, these bars have a texture that’s more cookie-like than cake-like. Let’s dive into the steps to understand why!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Carolina Pecan Bars are a delightful blend of buttery, nutty flavors with a hint of vanilla and maple. The combination of textures—from the crunchy toasted pecans to the creamy frosting—creates a truly indulgent treat. Perfect for family gatherings or as a sweet afternoon snack, these bars are sure to impress anyone who tries them.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 baking dish
• Small skillet
• Large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Ingredients

Cake

• 1 ½ cups pecans, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 cups white sugar
• 1 cup butter (two sticks)
• 4 eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 3 cups flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk

Frosting

• 6 cups powdered sugar
• 12 oz cream cheese (1 ½ packages), room temperature
• ⅔ cup butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon maple extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped pecans and stir until toasted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the sugar and 1 cup of butter. Beat until fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating to combine, then stir in the vanilla and maple extracts.
4. In another large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together thoroughly.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined, then fold in the toasted pecans.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. While the cake bakes, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, cream cheese, ⅔ cup of butter, vanilla extract, and maple extract until smooth. Add just enough milk to achieve a spreadable consistency.
8. Once the cake is done and cool enough to handle, divide it in half. Crumble one half into a large bowl and mix with ¼ of the frosting. Repeat with the second half.
9. Press the crumbled cake mixture back into the baking dish in an even layer.
10. Spread the remaining frosting over the pressed cake. Sprinkle with additional pecan pieces if desired.
11. Refrigerate until fully set, about 4 hours or overnight. Cut into small squares and serve chilled.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smooth frosting.
• Toast the pecans until they are just golden to enhance their flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the bars tender.

Additional Tips or Variations

Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice flavor. You can also experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds if pecans aren’t available.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While the exact nutritional content can vary, these bars are rich in calories and sugar, owing to the butter, sugar, and pecans. Enjoy in moderation as a special treat!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make these bars ahead of time? Yes, these bars can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until serving.
• How long will they last? Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, they should last up to a week.
• Can I freeze them? Yes, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

These Carolina Pecan Bars are a deliciously decadent treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends. I invite you to try this recipe and let your kitchen be filled with the comforting aroma of toasted pecans and sweet vanilla. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any variations you try!