Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans
Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the creamy sweetness of pecan pie and the crunch of graham crackers. This easy-to-make confection is not only visually appealing but also bursts with flavor, making it a fantastic dessert or snack. The experience of biting into a piece of this bark is simply heavenly—imagine the caramel-like richness of brown sugar mingling with the nutty crunch of pecans, all encased in a buttery graham cracker crust. With its accessible ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is undoubtedly worth making for your next gathering or cozy family evening.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pecan Pie Bark checks all the boxes for a perfect dessert. Firstly, the prep time is minimal, allowing you to whip it up quickly, making it an ideal choice for last-minute occasions. Additionally, this family-friendly recipe involves simple ingredients that you likely already have at home. The process is step-by-step, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, from novices to seasoned bakers.
The end result is a rich, indulgent treat that everyone will adore. Perfect for sharing at potlucks, holiday parties, or simply as a sweet treat for movie night, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—whether you prefer to enjoy it plain or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the options are deliciously endless.
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans
To create your delicious Pecan Pie Bark, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs: These provide a sweet and crunchy foundation that complements the rich flavors of the bark.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped: Adds a wonderful nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter: Ensures a rich and buttery texture throughout.
- 1 cup dark brown sugar: Enhances the sweetness and adds a deep caramel flavor.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Enriches the overall taste with a warm, lovely aroma.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
Step-by-Step Directions for Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans
Follow these easy steps to create your Pecan Pie Bark:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure you have the proper temperature for even baking.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make for easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Evenly distribute the graham cracker crumbs across the baking sheet, forming a uniform layer at the base.
- In a medium saucepan, melt together the unsalted butter and dark brown sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken.
- Once bubbling, remove from heat and stir in the pure vanilla extract and salt, mixing well to combine.
- Pour the warm mixture over the graham cracker crumbs, ensuring an even distribution.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top of the mixture, then press them down gently to incorporate them into the bark.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, checking frequently until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Allow the bark to cool completely on the baking sheet before breaking it into pieces. This cooling step is essential for achieving a perfect texture.
Clear and Vivid Steps for Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans
Writing clear, vivid, and easy-to-follow steps is vital for the success of any recipe. In this case, the steps outlined above provide just that. You begin by preheating the oven, a crucial step to initiate the baking process. The parchment paper ensures that your bark doesn’t stick, making removal effortless. The melting of butter and brown sugar happens in a saucepan, and it’s essential to stir frequently to avoid burning.
Pouring and distributing the mixture uniformly over the graham cracker base ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Finally, the simplicity of breaking the cooled bark into pieces gives you a satisfying conclusion to a straightforward recipe. Don’t forget to savor the aroma wafting through your kitchen—it’s one of the best parts of baking!
Tips & Tricks
To make your Pecan Pie Bark even more delicious, consider these chef’s secrets and tips:
- Variations: Feel free to mix in other nuts like walnuts or almonds to change things up. You can also add a handful of chocolate chips for an extra layer of decadence.
- Storage: Keep your bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free versions available in stores.
- Presentation: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top for a beautiful finish before it cools completely.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
When it comes to serving Pecan Pie Bark, presentation can elevate this simple treat to an elegant indulgence. Cut the bark into generous pieces and serve on a platter. Consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of textures—a creamy, cold scoop complements the crunchy bark beautifully.
For a warm beverage pairing, a spiced chai tea or a rich hot chocolate can enhance the flavors of the pecan bark, making for a comforting dessert experience. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving this bark alongside fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or blueberries, to add a pop of color and freshness.
Nutritional Information
While enjoying a treat like Pecan Pie Bark, it’s essential to keep an eye on portion sizes due to its richness. Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 200
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 2g
This dessert is definitely an indulgence! Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and feel free to adjust the recipe by substituting ingredients for healthier options, such as using coconut oil instead of butter or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
Storing Tips & Variations for Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans
To store your Pecan Pie Bark properly, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for about a week. For extended storage, you can refrigerate it, where it may last up to two weeks.
If you want to prepare the recipe in advance for a special occasion, consider freezing the bark. Cut it into pieces, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Just allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
For variations, consider swapping out graham crackers for cookies, such as Oreos or digestive biscuits, adding a different flavor profile that can totally transform your dessert.
Conclusion for Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans
You won’t want to wait long to make this Pecan Pie Bark! Its rich, nutty flavors and simple preparation will have you coming back for more time and time again. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion or as a treat for yourself, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of pecan pie in a delightful and shareable format. Grab your ingredients and start your baking adventure today!
FAQs
1. Can I make Pecan Pie Bark gluten-free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or any gluten-free cookie crumbs as a substitute.
2. How long can I store Pecan Pie Bark?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it can last for about a week. If refrigerated, it may last up to two weeks.
3. Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or a mix of your favorite nuts can be used.
4. What’s the best way to enjoy Pecan Pie Bark?
It’s delicious on its own, but for an extra treat, serve it with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm chocolate.
5. Can I freeze Pecan Pie Bark?
Yes! Cut it into pieces, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. Thaw before serving.
Pecan Pie Bark with Graham Crackers and Pecans
A delightful treat that balances creamy sweetness and crunchy graham crackers, perfect for any gathering or cozy family evening.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Evenly distribute the graham cracker crumbs across the baking sheet.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and dark brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until bubbling.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the graham cracker crumbs.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top and press down gently.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until edges are golden brown.
- Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.
Notes
For extra flavor, try mixing in chocolate chips. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg






