Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark Recipe

Crunchy Magic: The Sweetest Pecan Pie Bark Recipe Ever

Crisp winter afternoons demand something sweet and decadent, like this irresistible pecan pie bark that blends classic Southern comfort with addictive snacking magic.

Buttery caramel notes dance with rich pecans across layers of crisp, golden goodness.

Each delectable bite captures the essence of traditional pecan pie in a completely unexpected form.

Chocolate drizzles add depth and complexity to this simple yet extraordinary treat.

Clusters of toasted pecans provide delightful crunch and warmth in every single piece.

The recipe comes together faster than most holiday desserts, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or spontaneous sweet cravings.

Let’s find out this mouthwatering creation and experience a new way to enjoy a beloved classic.

Quick Recipe Overview

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories: 246 kcal

Servings: 13

Pecan Pie Bark Ingredient Rundown

For The Base:
  • Graham Crackers: Provides a crispy, sturdy foundation for the bark, ensuring a delightful crunch in every bite.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor profile, balancing the sweetness of the dessert.
For The Caramel Layer:
  • Unsalted Butter: Creates a rich, smooth caramel that binds the ingredients together with a luxurious texture.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps create a golden, glossy caramel coating.
For The Topping:
  • Pecan Halves: Bring a nutty, buttery crunch and elevate the bark with their distinctive, toasty flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Infuses the bark with a warm, aromatic essence that complements the pecans and caramel.

Tools for Making Pecan Pie Bark Easily

  • Rimmed Baking Sheet: Essential for creating an even base and catching all the delicious caramel.
  • Aluminum Foil: Helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
  • Medium Saucepan: Perfect for cooking the caramel mixture with precise temperature control.
  • Spatula: Crucial for spreading the caramel evenly over graham crackers.
  • Wooden Spoon or Whisk: Great for stirring the caramel mixture while it boils.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities.

How to Prepare Pecan Pie Bark at Home

How to Prepare Pecan Pie Bark at Home
  • Preparation Setup

Gather all necessary baking tools and create a workspace on your kitchen counter with a rimmed baking sheet, aluminum foil, and graham crackers.

  • Graham Cracker Foundation

Cover the baking sheet with foil and neatly arrange graham crackers edge to edge, creating a solid base for the delectable treat.

  • Caramel Pecan Magic

Combine butter, brown sugar, pecans, and salt in a saucepan, heating until the mixture transforms into a rich, bubbling caramel sauce with deep golden tones.

  • Sweet Transformation

Pour the hot caramel mixture over graham crackers, ensuring an even, luxurious coating that promises crunchy, sweet indulgence.

  • Baking Brilliance

Place the pan in the oven and watch as the bark turns golden and develops a crispy, glossy surface that signals its readiness.

  • Delightful Breakdown

Once completely cooled, break the bark into irregular pieces, creating a rustic, homemade dessert perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

Tips to Customize Your Pecan Pie Bark

Tips to Customize Your Pecan Pie Bark
  • Lightly toast pecans in a dry skillet before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor and add deeper complexity to the bark.
  • Replace brown sugar with maple syrup or honey for a unique twist on the traditional caramel coating that brings rich, natural sweetness.
  • Sprinkle dark or milk chocolate chips over the warm bark right after baking, allowing them to melt slightly for an indulgent chocolate-pecan combination.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the caramel mixture for an unexpected and exciting flavor profile that tingles the taste buds.
  • Package cooled bark pieces in cute mason jars or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a homemade holiday treat that's sure to impress friends and family.

How to Serve Pecan Pie Bark for Snacking

How to Serve Pecan Pie Bark for Snacking
  • Sweet Southern Picnic Companion: Pack these bark pieces in a cute mason jar for an instant potluck hit that'll have everyone asking for your recipe.
  • Festive Holiday Treat Display: Arrange bark pieces on a decorative holiday platter, sprinkled with extra chopped pecans for a stunning dessert presentation that screams southern charm.
  • Coffee and Dessert Pairing: Serve alongside a warm cup of rich espresso or creamy cappuccino, letting the sweet caramel and nutty pecan flavors complement your morning or afternoon coffee break.
  • Dessert Gifting Inspiration: Wrap bark pieces in clear cellophane with a rustic twine bow, creating a homemade gift that feels personal and deliciously indulgent for friends and family.

Pecan Pie Bark Storage & Meal Planning

  • Delightful Storing Solutions: Keeping Your Pecan Pie Bark Fresh and Tasty
  • Airtight Container Magic: Store your delectable bark pieces in a sealed container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain crisp texture.
  • Chill for Longevity: Refrigerate the bark in a protected container for extended freshness, lasting up to 2 weeks. Cold storage helps maintain the caramel's firm consistency and prevents softening.
  • Freezer-Friendly Approach: Wrap bark pieces individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for a make-ahead treat that's ready anytime sweet cravings hit.
  • Make-Ahead Masterplan: Prepare the bark a day before serving to allow flavors to meld and caramel to set perfectly. Let sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying for optimal crunch and flavor.
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Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark Recipe

Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark Recipe


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4.9 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Homemade pecan pie bark blends classic Southern dessert flavors into a crisp, addictive treat. Buttery caramel, toasted pecans, and graham cracker base combine for an irresistible sweet snack you’ll crave repeatedly.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (473 ml) pecan halves, roughly chopped
  • 1 cup (226 g / 2 sticks) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 13 graham crackers
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease with butter for effortless removal.
  2. Base Layer: Create a seamless foundation by arranging graham crackers across the entire baking sheet, trimming edges to ensure complete coverage.
  3. Caramel Creation: In a medium saucepan, combine butter, dark brown sugar, pecans, and kosher salt. Heat over medium temperature, stirring continuously until reaching a rolling boil. Maintain boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and achieve even caramelization.
  4. Flavor Infusion: Remove caramel from heat and swiftly incorporate vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to distribute flavor uniformly.
  5. Assembly and Baking: Pour hot caramel over graham cracker base, spreading evenly with a silicone spatula to ensure complete coverage. Transfer to preheated oven and bake 10-12 minutes, monitoring for golden-brown edges and small bubbles indicating proper caramelization.
  6. Cooling and Serving: Remove from oven and allow bark to cool completely at room temperature, enabling caramel to set and become crisp. Once hardened, break into irregular, bite-sized pieces for serving.

Notes

  • Prevent Burning Carefully: Constant stirring while boiling prevents sugar from scorching and creates smooth, even caramel.
  • Check Caramel Color: Golden-brown edges and small bubbles signal perfect caramelization, avoiding bitter or burnt flavors.
  • Smooth Spreading Technique: Use a silicone spatula for uniform caramel coverage, ensuring every graham cracker piece gets coated evenly.
  • Cooling is Crucial: Complete room temperature cooling helps bark become crisp and allows caramel to set perfectly, enhancing overall texture.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking, Boiling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 246
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 50 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 23 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Michael Reynolds

Michael Reynolds

Founder, Head Recipe Developer & Cuisine Specialist

Expertise

Recipe Development and Testing​, Modern American and European Cuisines​, Food Styling and Photography, Culinary Education and Workshops​

Education

Johnson & Wales University

  • Degree: Bachelor of Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern cooking techniques, kitchen management, and global cuisines.​

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

  • Program: Diploma in Pastry Arts
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking and pastry, emphasizing artisanal bread, confections, and plated desserts.​

Michael Reynolds is the founder and head recipe creator at wd-50.com. With over 15 years of experience in the kitchen, he’s spent time working in top restaurants and now focuses on making great food easy for everyone at home.

Michael studied culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University and later trained in pastry at the Auguste Escoffier School. He knows his way around both savory meals and sweet treats.

At wd-50.com, his goal is to help you feel confident in the kitchen, whether you’re trying something new or cooking a favorite dish. He loves using fresh ingredients and simple steps that still bring out big flavors.

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