Caramel Pecan Dream Bars Recipe
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1/3 cup soft margarine
- 1 egg
For the Filling:
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup bits o’ brickle baking chips
Methods with Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Crust:
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, soft margarine, and egg. Use an electric mixer or mix by hand until the mixture is well combined and forms a dough-like consistency.
- Press into Pan: Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan, ensuring it’s well-distributed and flat. This forms the base of your bars.
3. Prepare the Filling:
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chopped pecans, and bits o’ brickle baking chips. Stir until the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Pour Over Crust: Pour the filling mixture evenly over the crust, spreading it out to cover the entire base.
4. Bake:
- Bake in Oven: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set. The center should be slightly firm to the touch.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Cool Completely: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. This will make cutting them easier and prevent the filling from being too gooey.
- Cut into Squares: Once cooled, cut the bars into squares of your desired size.
- Enjoy: Serve and enjoy your Caramel Pecan Dream Bars!
Benefits
1. Easy Preparation:
- This recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers. The use of a cake mix for the crust simplifies the process.
2. Versatile Treat:
- These bars are perfect for various occasions, such as family gatherings, potlucks, or as a sweet treat for yourself. They travel well and can be made ahead of time.
3. Rich and Indulgent Flavor:
- The combination of sweetened condensed milk, pecans, and bits o’ brickle chips creates a rich, indulgent flavor that satisfies sweet cravings.
4. Nutritional Benefits:
- Pecans: Pecans are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They also contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, which contribute to heart health and overall well-being.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: While high in sugar, sweetened condensed milk provides a source of calcium and vitamin D, which are important for bone health.
5. Customizable:
- You can easily customize the recipe by adding other ingredients, such as chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or different types of nuts, to suit your taste preferences.
6. Joy and Comfort:
- Baking and sharing these bars can bring joy and comfort to both the baker and those who enjoy them. The sweet, nostalgic flavor can evoke fond memories and create new ones.