Pecan Chewies

It’s no secret that we have an affinity for all things pecan here at 12 Tomatoes. From pies, to candy, to cakes, and cookies– if it’s got pecans, we have to try it. After making some seriously tasty Coconut Chewies recently, we got to thinking that a pecan version of the chewy cookie bar might just knock it out of the park. So into the kitchen we went to give ‘em a try. And ya know what? They were even better than we expected!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of pecans, these Pecan Chewies will quickly become a favorite. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family treat. The combination of buttery richness and nutty pecans creates a delightful texture that’s both chewy and satisfying. Plus, they’re simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large microwave-safe bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• 9×13 baking dish
• Microwave or stovetop for melting butter
• Mixing spoon or electric mixer
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, or 2 sticks
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 3 teaspoons vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup pecans, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 15-second intervals until fully melted.
3. Add the white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla to the melted butter and mix until smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
4. In a separate small bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the center is set and cooked through.
9. Allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.

Tips for Success

Make sure the butter is warm when you mix in the sugars for a smoother consistency. Also, let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure they hold their shape.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a twist, try adding a handful of chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter. You can also substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nut flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

These bars are indulgent, so enjoy them in moderation! They’re rich in flavor thanks to the butter and pecans, offering a delicious treat that’s worth every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use salted butter? Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.
• How should I store these? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• Can I freeze them? Absolutely! Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to three months.

Conclusion

These Pecan Chewies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. We hope you’ll try them and fall in love with their chewy texture and nutty flavor. If you do give them a go, we’d love to hear about your baking experience and any creative twists you might have added. Happy baking!