Pecan Pie Bark

Pecan Pie Bark is a sweet and indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of pecan pie with the convenience of bark. The crisp, nutty pecans are perfectly balanced with a sweet, buttery syrup, all topped with a layer of smooth, melted chocolate. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for the holidays or any time you're craving a sweet, crunchy snack. It’s a mix of classic pie flavors in a fun, simple form!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how quick and easy this Pecan Pie Bark is to prepare, and the result is a decadent treat that’s impossible to resist. The crunchy pecans combined with the sweet, caramel-like syrup and smooth chocolate make each bite an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s so simple to make that I can whip it up in no time, and it's a great recipe to make when I'm looking for a homemade gift or party snack. The best part? It's made with ingredients that I usually have on hand, so no special trip to the store is required!

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecans, roughly chopped

• ½ cup brown sugar, packed

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• 1 tablespoon corn syrup

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 8 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped (or chocolate chips)

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

2. Spread the chopped pecans evenly on the baking sheet and toast them in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

4. Pour the butter mixture over the toasted pecans and stir to coat them evenly. Spread the mixture out in an even layer on the baking sheet and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.

5. While the pecan mixture is cooling, melt the chopped semisweet chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring in between.

6. Once the pecan mixture has cooled, drizzle the melted chocolate over the top. Use a spatula to spread the chocolate evenly, covering the pecans. Let the bark cool completely at room temperature or in the fridge for faster results.

7. Once the bark has hardened, break it into pieces and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-16 pieces, depending on how large you break the bark.

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 15 minutes

• Cooling time: 30 minutes to 1 hour (if refrigerating)

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Feel free to add other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a more varied flavor.

• Sweet and Salty: Sprinkle a little sea salt over the chocolate layer before it hardens to enhance the sweet and salty contrast.

• Milk Chocolate: If you prefer milk chocolate to semisweet, feel free to substitute it for a sweeter version of the bark.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the caramelized pecans for a warm, spicy note.

Storage/Reheating

I store my Pecan Pie Bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If I want it to last longer, I keep it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. I don’t recommend reheating it, as the chocolate can become a little too soft and lose its texture. Instead, just enjoy it at room temperature for the perfect bite!

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts in Pecan Pie Bark?

Yes! While pecans are traditional, I’ve experimented with walnuts and almonds in the past, and they work wonderfully too. Just make sure to toast the nuts before coating them in the caramel for the best flavor.

How do I know when the pecans are toasted properly?

I check the pecans at the 8-minute mark, giving them a stir to ensure they toast evenly. They should be fragrant and lightly golden brown, but be careful not to over-toast them, or they could turn bitter.

Can I make Pecan Pie Bark in advance?

Absolutely! I love making it ahead of time. It keeps well in an airtight container, so I can prepare it a few days before I need it, and it will still taste fresh.

Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?

Yes, chocolate chips work just fine! They may melt slightly differently than chopped chocolate, but the final result will still be delicious.

What’s the best way to break the bark into pieces?

Once the bark has hardened, I use my hands to break it into rough, irregular pieces. I like it when each piece is different in size for a more rustic, homemade look.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Bark is a super simple yet irresistible treat that captures all the cozy, comforting flavors of a pecan pie, without the need for pie crust or a long baking time. It's perfect for holiday gatherings, or any time I’m craving something sweet, crunchy, and delicious. Plus, it’s so easy to make, I find myself making a batch just to have on hand for when guests drop by or I need a quick sweet snack. Whether I’m enjoying it by myself or sharing it with friends, it’s always a hit!