Tucked away in the southern corners of family cookbooks, the Carolina Pecan Bars have always been a show-stealer at family gatherings and potlucks. Their luscious texture, almost a love child between a cookie and a cake, and the buttery richness of toasted pecans make them irresistibly delightful. Without further ado, let's dive into the creation of this southern gem.
Ingredients:
Pecans, chopped
Butter
Flour
Sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Eggs
Vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
Butter
Powdered sugar
Milk or cream
Vanilla extract
Instructions:
Toasting Pecans: In a skillet, melt some butter over medium heat. Add the chopped pecans and toast them, stirring occasionally, until they’re fragrant and have a slight golden hue. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preparing the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add in eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is combined. Now, fold in your toasted pecans.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the batter into a greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
The Extraordinary Frosting: While your bars are baking, it’s time for the magic. Melt butter in a saucepan. Once melted, add in powdered sugar and whisk continuously. As the mixture thickens, slowly add milk or cream to reach your desired consistency. Finish it off with a splash of vanilla extract.
Assembling the Delight: Once your bars are baked and slightly cooled, generously spread the frosting over them. Let them set for a bit, then slice into squares.
Notes:
These bars are rich, so cutting them into smaller pieces might be a good idea.
For an added twist, consider drizzling with some caramel or sprinkling with sea salt.
As you enjoy the crunch of the pecans and the creamy frosting, you’ll understand why this recipe stands out. It’s a taste of southern hospitality, wrapped in tradition and love. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, the Carolina Pecan Bars are sure to win hearts at any gathering!