Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup praline pecans, chopped
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x13 inch baking dish with aluminum foil and set aside.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add in the flour, mixing until well combined.
4. Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
6. While the crust is baking, prepare the filling. In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
7. Stir in the pecan halves and chopped praline pecans.
8. Pour the filling over the baked crust, spreading it out evenly.
9. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and golden brown.
10. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45-50 minutes
5. Temperature:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Serving size:
Makes 12-16 bars.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 320
Total fat: 20g
Saturated fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 85mg
Total carbohydrates: 34g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 24g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted butter, but reduce the added salt accordingly.
- Dark corn syrup can be used instead of light corn syrup for a richer flavor.
- Walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.
Variations:
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for extra flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars for a decadent touch.
- Use a graham cracker crust instead of the shortbread crust for a different texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the crust is fully baked before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the bars on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the bars on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a simple and elegant presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped praline pecans or toasted coconut over the bars for added texture and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve the bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert pairing.
Suggested side dishes:
These bars are rich and sweet on their own, but can be paired with a cup of coffee or tea for a satisfying treat.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the filling is not setting, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until firm.
- If the crust is overbrowning, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Food safety advice:
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage.
Food history:
Praline-Pecan Pie Bars are a classic Southern dessert that combines the flavors of pecan pie and pralines into a portable and easy-to-make treat.
Flavor profiles:
These bars are sweet and nutty, with a buttery shortbread crust and a rich filling of pecans and praline.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these bars as a dessert or snack, either on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Buttery, Caramelized, Crunchy