When it comes to classic dessert combinations, few can compete with the irresistible trio of chocolate, caramel, and pecans. This flavor medley has stood the test of time—rich, nutty, sticky, sweet, and decadently satisfying. Today’s recipe takes those nostalgic flavors and turns them into heavenly dessert bars that strike the perfect balance between gooey caramel, buttery pecans, and a fudgy chocolate topping.

Whether you’re preparing a dessert for the holidays, a potluck, a family gathering, or simply want an indulgent treat to enjoy with coffee, these Chocolate Caramel Pecan Bars are guaranteed to impress. Best of all—they come together easily with simple ingredients and deliver bakery-quality results every single time.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Caramel Pecan Bars

• Rich, buttery, and deeply flavorful

• Crunchy yet gooey texture contrast

• A no-fail recipe perfect for beginners

• Keeps well—ideal for gifting or make-ahead desserts

• Uses pantry staples, no mixer required

This is the kind of dessert people remember long after the plate is empty.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Caramel Pecan Layer

• 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt (optional)

For the Chocolate Topping

• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon butter (for smoother melting)

How to Make Chocolate Caramel Pecan Bars

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Line a baking dish (9×13) with parchment paper.

3. In a bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, flour, vanilla, and salt.

4. Mix until a soft dough forms, then press evenly into the baking dish.

5. Bake 12–15 minutes, or until lightly golden.

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Step 2: Add the Caramel Pecan Layer

1. Warm your caramel sauce until pourable.

2. Stir in the chopped pecans.

3. Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the baked crust.

4. Return to the oven for 10 minutes to set the caramel.

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Step 3: Create the Chocolate Topping

1. Melt chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon butter together (microwave or stovetop).

2. Stir until silky and smooth.

3. Gently spread the chocolate over the warm caramel layer.

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Step 4: Chill & Slice

1. Let the pan cool to room temperature.

2. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until the chocolate sets.

3. Lift out using the parchment and slice into bars.

Your masterpiece is ready—shiny chocolate top, gooey caramel center, crunchy pecans, and a buttery shortbread base.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy slightly chilled for the perfect chewy texture

• Serve with coffee or hot chocolate

• Top with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert

Storage Instructions

• Room Temperature: Up to 3 days

• Refrigerator: Up to 1 week

• Freezer: Up to 2 months (layer bars between parchment to prevent sticking)

They thaw beautifully and taste just as delicious!