Imagine sinking your teeth into a buttery, crumbly cookie bar studded with crunchy pecans and kissed with a hint of vanilla - a dessert that promises to transport you to flavor paradise! These Pecan Diamond Cookie Bars are not just a treat; they're an experience that combines the rich, nutty goodness of pecans with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Whether you're hosting a party, looking for a weekend baking project, or simply craving something extraordinary, these diamond-shaped delights are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer. Mix for approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and blend until fully incorporated.
- Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour and salt, stirring until a soft, crumbly dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Press approximately two-thirds of the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a smooth, compact base.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the dough base, ensuring uniform distribution.
- Crumble the remaining dough over the pecan layer, creating a rustic, uneven topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top is lightly set.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely in the pan for about 1 hour.
- Using the parchment paper overhang, lift the cooled bars out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Cut into diamond-shaped bars, approximately 2 inches wide, creating 16 servings.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened but not melted - this creates the perfect creamy base for your cookie bars.
- When pressing the dough into the pan, use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to create an even, compact layer.
- Don't overmix the dough - this can lead to tough, dense bars instead of tender, crumbly ones.
- Use fresh, high-quality pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, sharp diamond shapes.
- For an extra touch of elegance, you can dust the finished bars with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light vanilla glaze.
- These bars freeze beautifully - wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months for a make-ahead dessert option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
