Pecan Pie Bark

Pecan Pie Bark

Description:

Pecan Pie Bark is a decadent and easy-to-make treat that captures all the sweet, nutty, and caramelized flavors of traditional pecan pie in a simple, crunchy form. This dessert is made with a base of rich, buttery toffee covered in melted chocolate and topped with toasted pecans. It’s a festive treat that’s perfect for the holidays or as a sweet gift. The combination of textures, from the crunchy bark to the chewy pecans, will satisfy any sweet tooth!

Origin:

Pecan pie is a traditional Southern dessert in the United States, often served during holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. The bark version simplifies the flavors of pecan pie into a quick and portable treat that’s just as indulgent and delightful.

Ingredients (Makes about 20 pieces):

For the Bark:

• Butter: 1 cup (226 g), unsalted
• Brown sugar: 1 cup (200 g), packed
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Pecans: 1 ½ cups (180 g), roughly chopped
• Chocolate chips: 1 ½ cups (240 g) (semi-sweet or dark)
• Salt: ¼ tsp

Optional Toppings:

• Sea salt: A pinch, for sprinkling on top
• Additional toasted pecans: For garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

1. Line a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the bark from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Toffee Layer

1. Melt the Butter and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a gentle boil.
2. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
3. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. Pour the Toffee: Immediately pour the toffee mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Step 3: Bake the Toffee

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the toffee is bubbly and golden.

Step 4: Add the Pecans

1. Toast the Pecans: While the toffee is baking, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Set aside to cool.
2. Top the Toffee with Pecans: Once the toffee layer has baked, remove it from the oven and immediately sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the toffee.

Step 5: Add the Chocolate

1. Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
2. Pour the Chocolate: Pour the melted chocolate over the pecans and toffee layer. Spread it evenly with a spatula, covering the pecans and toffee completely.

Step 6: Chill and Set

1. Chill the Bark: Place the baking sheet in the fridge for about 1-2 hours, or until the bark is completely set and hardened.

Step 7: Break into Pieces

1. Break the Bark: Once the bark has cooled and hardened, break it into uneven pieces by hand or with a sharp knife.

Tips for Success:

• Watch the Toffee: When cooking the toffee, make sure to stir constantly to avoid burning the sugar.
• Chocolate Layer: You can use semi-sweet, dark, or milk chocolate depending on your sweetness preference. You can also drizzle white chocolate over the top for a festive touch.
• Storage: Store the bark in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve as a sweet snack, or gift it in a decorative box or jar for a homemade holiday present.

Recommendations:

• Customization: Add a handful of mini marshmallows or drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the chocolate layer for extra flavor.
• Freezing: Pecan Pie Bark can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply layer pieces between parchment paper and store in a freezer bag.

Nutrition (Per Piece, based on 20 servings):

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 2 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Sugar: 12 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 35 mg
• Cholesterol: 15 mg

This Pecan Pie Bark is an irresistible treat that combines the beloved flavors of pecan pie with the simplicity and ease of bark. It’s perfect for the holidays or whenever you want to indulge in a sweet, crunchy delight!