Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will transform your dessert game forever! These Milk Chocolate Pecan Bars are not just another sweet treat – they're a symphony of buttery, crunchy, and chocolatey goodness that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver a crowd-pleasing dessert that's impossibly easy to make and irresistibly delicious to devour.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a crumbly dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, compact base. Use the back of a spoon or a flat spatula to smooth the surface.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the surface of the dough, gently pressing them slightly into the base.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle milk chocolate chips evenly over the hot surface.
- Let the chocolate chips sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then use an offset spatula to spread the melted chocolate in an even layer.
- Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan at room temperature, which will take approximately 1-2 hours.
- Once fully cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and cut into 16 even squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for extended freshness.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect dough consistency.
- Don't Overmix: When adding flour, mix just until combined to keep the base tender and crumbly.
- Chocolate Melting Trick: Let the hot bars sit with chocolate chips for a few minutes for smooth, effortless spreading.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow bars to cool completely to get clean, perfect cuts.
- Storage Hack: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container and separate layers with parchment paper.
- Customization Option: Try using different types of chocolate or nuts to create your unique variation.
- Room Temperature Serving: These bars taste best when served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 45mg
