Pecan-Toffee Bars With Dark Chocolate Drizzle, Thanksgiving Tray Bake

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What kind of recipe is it?

Pecan-Toffee Bars with Dark Chocolate Drizzle is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines the rich flavors of buttery toffee, crunchy pecans, and smooth dark chocolate.

These bars feature a chewy texture with a sweet, nutty flavor profile, making them an irresistible treat for any sweet tooth. Ideal for baking enthusiasts and anyone looking to impress guests at gatherings, this recipe is both indulgent and simple to prepare.

Cook it for special occasions or a cozy night in, and satisfy your cravings with these delectable treats!

Ingredients

Notes:

• Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.
• You can use toasted pecans for an enhanced flavor if desired.

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Adjust the oven rack to the center position and prepare a 23 cm x 33 cm (9 in x 13 in) baking pan by greasing it lightly with non-stick cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) of unsalted butter, 1 cup of light brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3–5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated, about 1 minute.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until no flour streaks remain, about 1 minute. Avoid overmixing to prevent a dense texture.
6. Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter using a rubber spatula.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly using an offset spatula.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes.
10. For best results, let them cool completely before slicing.
11. Melt 1/2 cup of dark chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
12. Drizzle over the cooled pecan-toffee bars using a fork or piping bag.
13. Allow the chocolate drizzle to set at room temperature or pop the bars in the fridge for about 15 minutes to speed up the cooling process.
14. Once the chocolate has hardened, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, and serve.
15. Enjoy the rich aroma and the combination of flavors in each bite.

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Pecan Bars: Substitute 1 cup (160 g) of chopped pecans with 1 cup (175 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.
• Gluten-Free Pecan-Toffee Bars: Replace 1 1/2 cups (190 g) of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version that’s equally delicious.
• Vegan Pecan Bars: Use 1 cup (240 ml) of coconut oil instead of butter, 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water) in place of eggs, and make certain chocolate is dairy-free to make these bars vegan-friendly.
• Fall Spice Pecan Bars: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a seasonal twist that captures the essence of fall.

Tips on plating and presentation

Although plating might seem like a minor detail, it can truly elevate the presentation of your pecan-toffee bars and make them feel special.

Start by cutting them into neat squares and arranging them on a decorative platter. Drizzle dark chocolate artfully over the bars, and consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt or edible gold flakes for an elegant touch.

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh pecans!

What other dishes can I pair it with?

After perfecting the presentation of your pecan-toffee bars, you might wonder what dishes pair well with this delightful treat.

I love serving them alongside a rich chocolate cake or a classic pumpkin pie.

They also complement a creamy cheesecake beautifully.

For a savory balance, consider a robust cheese platter with sharp cheddar or blue cheese.

These combinations create a festive and indulgent spread!

What drinks can I pair it with?

When I’m enjoying pecan-toffee bars, I love pairing them with a few standout drinks that elevate the experience.

A rich, full-bodied coffee enhances the bars’ nuttiness beautifully. For something a bit more festive, I’ll often opt for a spiced apple cider or a smooth bourbon, both of which complement the caramel tones perfectly.

Each sip makes those sweet bites even more delightful!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Other Nuts Besides Pecans?

I love experimenting with different nuts. Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts all add unique flavors. Just keep in mind the texture and taste balance in your recipe—it’s all about what you enjoy!

How Do I Store Leftover Pecan-Toffee Bars?

I store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If I want them to last longer, I freeze them, wrapping each piece tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, I can make this recipe gluten-free! I usually swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and guarantee all other ingredients, like chocolate and toffee, are also gluten-free. It’s absolutely delicious!

What’s the Best Way to Cut the Bars?

I like using a sharp knife dipped in hot water for cutting bars. It creates clean edges without squishing the layers. Just wipe it dry between cuts for the best results—trust me, it works wonders!

How Long Do These Bars Last at Room Temperature?

These bars typically last about three to five days at room temperature. I always make sure to store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and delicious for as long as possible.