Retro Bakery Style Pecan Pie Bark
This Retro Bakery Style Pecan Pie Bark captures all the buttery, toasted goodness of a classic pecan pie in a crunchy, breakable confection. Roasted pecans embedded in a smooth, golden caramel layer make for a rich, irresistible sweet treat that is perfect for holiday dessert platters or gift tins.
Ingredients
2 cups pecan halves
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
A dash of ground cinnamon (optional)
Step-By-Step Directions:
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toast the pecans: Spread the pecan halves evenly across the baking sheet and toast for 8 to 10 minutes until fragrant. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Make the caramel: In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, unsalted butter, and water over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a golden caramel consistency.
- Season the sauce: Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt until smooth.
- Combine and spread: Pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the toasted pecans on the baking sheet, spreading to coat them thoroughly.
- Cool and set: Allow the bark to cool and firm up at room temperature or in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Break and serve: Once fully set, break the bark into smaller, bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon if desired, and serve.
