Decadent Chocolate Pecan Bars

Are you searching for a dessert that marries rich, buttery flavors with the irresistible crunch of pecans and a luscious chocolate coating? Look no further than these sensational Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars! Forget the fuss of a traditional pie; these bars offer all the decadent taste of classic pecan pie in a convenient, shareable form, elevated with a delightful layer of smooth chocolate and a hint of sea salt. Perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply to satisfy a craving for something truly extraordinary, these bars are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and leave everyone asking for the recipe.

Imagine a tender, flaky shortbread crust providing the perfect foundation for a gooey, caramel-like pecan filling, generously studded with crunchy pecans. Now, picture that masterpiece dipped in a cloak of rich milk chocolate, finished with a delicate sprinkle of flaky sea salt that beautifully balances the sweetness. That’s exactly what you get with every bite of these homemade delights. They are truly an indulgence that will make a lasting impression, bringing a touch of gourmet elegance to your dessert table.

Why These Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars Will Be Your New Favorite

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these easy-to-make pecan pie bars, especially when they come coated in chocolate. They offer a winning combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility that makes them a staple for any dessert enthusiast. Here’s a deeper dive into what makes them so special:

Unforgettable Rich & Sweet Flavor: Each bar is a symphony of flavors, delivering a heavenly rich and sweet experience that perfectly captures the essence of a classic pecan pie. The gooey pecan filling, with its notes of caramel and brown sugar, is incredibly satisfying, making these bars the ultimate holiday treat. They’re sweet without being overpowering, with a depth of flavor that lingers deliciously on the palate.
The Ultimate Dessert Fusion: Why choose between your two favorite desserts when you can have both? These bars expertly combine the beloved taste and texture of traditional pecan pie with the universally adored richness of chocolate. This incredible combination creates a truly unique and irresistible treat that appeals to all ages and palates.
Abundantly Loaded with Pecans: We believe a good pecan pie bar should be generous with its star ingredient! These bars are packed with a substantial amount of crunchy pecans, ensuring every bite delivers that delightful nutty texture. To elevate them even further, each bar is dipped in smooth milk chocolate and finished with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt, creating a perfect balance of sweet and salty atop a tender, buttery shortbread crust. The contrast of textures – the crisp shortbread, the soft gooey filling, the crunchy pecans, and the snap of chocolate – is simply divine.
Customizable to Your Liking: One of the best aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. You have the freedom to customize these bars to suit your preferences. Want to skip the chocolate coating for a more traditional pecan pie bar experience? Go for it! Prefer to omit the sea salt? No problem! You can easily tailor this recipe to create your perfect pecan pie bar.
Versatile Ingredient Swaps: The possibilities don’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a unique twist. You can also explore various chocolates—dark chocolate for a more intense flavor, or white chocolate for a creamier, sweeter profile. The base recipe is so robust that it welcomes creative substitutions.
Portion Control for Every Palate: These bars are undeniably rich, making them perfect for cutting into smaller, bite-sized squares, ideal for a dessert platter or when you just need a small indulgence. Alternatively, you can cut them into larger portions for a more substantial treat. Their richness means even a small piece is incredibly satisfying, allowing you to decide exactly how much deliciousness you want to enjoy.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re looking for an impressive hostess gift, a delightful potluck contribution, or a show-stopping dessert for your own holiday entertaining, these pecan pie bars are absolutely ideal. They travel well, are easy to serve, and their homemade charm makes them a thoughtful and cherished offering during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any festive gathering.

Gather Your Ingredients for Success

Creating these heavenly Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars requires a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Breaking them down by layer ensures you have everything ready for each stage of this delightful baking process. Using room temperature butter is key for both the crust and filling, as it helps create a smoother, more uniform mixture.

Shortbread Crust Ingredients

Unsalted butter, at room temperature: Using unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness of the final product.
Light brown sugar, packed: Adds a tender texture and a delicate caramel note to the crust.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the buttery flavor of the shortbread. Consider coffee or maple extract for an interesting twist!
All-purpose flour: The foundational ingredient for a crisp yet tender shortbread base.

Pecan Filling Ingredients

Unsalted butter, at room temperature: Forms the rich, gooey base of the filling.
Light brown sugar, packed: Contributes to the deep caramel flavor and chewiness of the filling. You can find quality brown sugar online or at your local grocery store.
Light corn syrup: Essential for the characteristic gooey texture of pecan pie filling, preventing crystallization and adding sweetness.
Heavy cream: Adds richness and a silky smoothness to the filling.
Raw chopped pecans: The star of the show! Ensure they are freshly chopped for the best flavor and crunch. High-quality raw chopped pecans are readily available.

Chocolate Layer Ingredients

Milk chocolate chips or chocolate chips of choice: The outer layer that adds a decadent finish. Feel free to use dark, semi-sweet, or even white chocolate to suit your preference.
Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling: A pinch of flaky sea salt on top beautifully contrasts the sweetness of the chocolate and pecan, elevating the flavor profile.

How to Make Delicious Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars

Crafting these delectable pecan pie bars is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfectly baked bars every time.

Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides. This thoughtful step will allow you to easily lift the cooled bars out of the pan for clean cutting.

Crafting the Perfect Shortbread Crust

A sturdy and flavorful crust is the foundation of these amazing bars. This simple shortbread recipe creates a wonderfully buttery base that perfectly complements the rich pecan filling.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter (at room temperature) and ½ cup of packed light brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for approximately 3 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and noticeably pale. This aeration step is crucial for a tender crust.
Add Vanilla and Flour: Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined. Reduce the mixer speed to low, then gradually add the 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Mix just until the flour is incorporated and the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough crust.
Press into Pan: Transfer the shortbread dough to your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan. Use your fingertips to press the dough evenly across the bottom of the pan, ensuring it forms a uniform layer from edge to edge.
Pre-Bake the Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. This pre-baking step ensures the crust is perfectly set before the filling is added. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it in the refrigerator while you prepare the pecan filling. Chilling the crust helps it firm up and prevents it from becoming soggy when the warm filling is poured over it.

Preparing the Irresistible Pecan Filling

This gooey, nutty filling is the heart of the pecan pie bars, offering a delightful chewiness and rich, sweet flavor.

Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine 1 cup of unsalted butter (at room temperature), 1 ½ cups of packed light brown sugar, and ½ cup of light corn syrup. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir or whisk continuously until the butter is melted and all ingredients are well blended and smooth.
Boil and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Continue to stir frequently for 3 minutes. During this time, the mixture will lighten in color and become slightly airy. This boiling process is vital for achieving the correct consistency and flavor.
Finish the Filling Base: Remove the pan from the heat. Carefully stir in ¼ cup of heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully combined. The heavy cream adds a luxurious richness.
Add Pecans: Gently fold in 1 pound of raw chopped pecans, stirring until every pecan piece is thoroughly coated in the rich, caramel-like filling.
Assemble and Bake: Retrieve the chilled shortbread crust from the refrigerator. Pour the warm pecan filling evenly over the crust, using a spatula to spread it into a smooth, consistent layer. Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes. The pecan topping should appear set, though it may still jiggle slightly in the center when gently shaken.
Perfecting the Bake: Start checking the bars around the 20-minute mark. The longer they bake, the crunchier the edges will become. While some people prefer the softer center, others love the delightful crispiness of the edges. Once baked to your desired preference, remove the pan from the oven.
Cool and Cut: Immediately after removing from the oven, if desired, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the warm pecan topping. Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before attempting to cut them. Patience is key here; cooling allows the filling to fully set, making for clean, precise squares. These bars are incredibly rich and sweet, so consider cutting them into smaller, more manageable squares for serving.

Adding the Decadent Chocolate Layer

The optional chocolate coating elevates these pecan pie bars from delicious to truly extraordinary.

Melt the Chocolate: Place 1 cup of milk chocolate chips (or your chosen chocolate) in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. This usually takes between 1.5 to 2 minutes total. Stirring ensures even melting and prevents scorching.
Dip and Finish: Once the bars are completely cooled and cut, take each bar and dip its top into the melted chocolate. You can coat the entire top surface or simply drizzle the chocolate for a decorative touch. Place the dipped bars on parchment paper or a wire baking rack. Immediately sprinkle with sea salt, if desired, before the chocolate sets. Allow the chocolate to fully set at room temperature or by refrigerating for a short period.
Serve and Enjoy: Arrange your beautiful Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars in decorative tins, on a nice party tray, or simply on a plate. They are now ready to be savored and enjoyed!

Pecan Pie Bar Variations & Expert Tips

While these Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars are perfect as is, there are several ways to customize and enhance them to suit your taste or occasion. These variations can transform your dessert and offer new flavor experiences:

A Boozy Touch: For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon or dark rum to your pecan filling. A tablespoon or two, stirred in with the vanilla extract, will impart a sophisticated, warming flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
Different Chocolate Coatings: Don’t limit yourself to milk chocolate! A dark chocolate coating will provide a richer, more intense counterpoint to the sweet filling, appealing to those who prefer less sweetness. White chocolate can offer a creamier, milder flavor, and even a swirl of different chocolates can create a visually stunning effect.
Explore Other Nuts: While pecans are traditional, walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of nuts can be used in the filling for a different flavor profile. Lightly toast them before adding to enhance their nutty depth.
Spiced Pecan Bars: Introduce warm spices like a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a tiny dash of cayenne pepper (for a subtle kick) into the pecan filling mixture. These spices can add another layer of complexity, especially fitting for fall and winter holidays.
Make Them Mini: For party appetizers or varied dessert platters, cut the bars into smaller, one-inch squares. This yields many more servings and makes them easy to pick up and enjoy. Remember, they are very rich, so smaller portions are often appreciated!
Storage: Store the cooled and cut bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on parchment paper until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Gifting Idea: These bars make fantastic edible gifts. Stack them in festive tins or boxes, perhaps layered with parchment paper, and tie with a ribbon. They’re a thoughtful and delicious homemade present during the holidays.

These Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars are a truly decadent and delicious treat that delivers an abundance of flavor and satisfying crunch in every single bite. Their combination of a tender shortbread crust, gooey pecan filling, and a smooth chocolate coating with a hint of sea salt makes them utterly irresistible.

Not only are these pecan bar treats delightful to eat, but they are also surprisingly easy to prepare, making them a fantastic choice for home bakers of all skill levels. They are sure to impress your guests and make for the perfect party treat for Thanksgiving and Christmas, adding a touch of homemade warmth to your festive celebrations.

They pair wonderfully on a party tray alongside other festive delights like White Chocolate No-Bake Festive Candy, cute Pillsbury™ Frosted Snowmen on a Stick, or this incredibly addictive Chocolate Cherry Pistachio Rocky Road Fudge. Prepare for them to disappear quickly!

Recipe: Addictive Chocolate Covered Pecan Pie Bars

These addictive, rich, and gooey chocolate covered pecan pie bars are perfect for holiday baking and entertaining for a crowd!

Author: Kim Lange

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Servings: 24 Servings
Keywords: bars, chocolate, christmas, party treats, pecans, thanksgiving

Ingredients

Shortbread Crust

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
½ cup light brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (coffee and maple extract are good too!)
2 cups all-purpose flour

Pecan Filling

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 ½ cups light brown sugar, packed
½ cup light corn syrup
¼ cup heavy cream
1 pound raw pecans, chopped

Chocolate Layer

1 cup milk chocolate chips or chocolate chips of choice
Optional: sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 9×13″ pan with parchment paper to remove the bars easily.

Shortbread Crust Instructions

Using a mixer, cream together 1 cup of the butter and 1/2 cup of the brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, approximately 3 minutes.
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until combined. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour and mix until the flour and butter are just combined.
Press the dough into the pan by using your fingertips evenly into the pan until it’s even all the way across the pan.
Bake for 15 minutes, until crust is lightly browned around the edges. Place pan in fridge while making the pecan filling.

Pecan Filling Instructions

In a medium sized saucepan combine 1 cup of butter and 1-1/2 cups of brown sugar and the corn syrup and stir or whisk until well blended over medium-high heat.
Bring mixture to a boil and stir frequently for 3 minutes as the mixture will get light and airy. Remove the pan from the heat, then add the heavy cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and stir until combined.
Add the chopped pecans and stir until they are completely coated.
Remove the shortbread crust from the refrigerator and pour the topping over the crust, using a spatula to spread it into an even layer.
Return bars to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the pecan topping is set. It will jiggle a little. Once you get to 20 minutes, really watch these. The longer you bake, the more crunch you get on the edges of the bars.
Add some sprinkles of sea salt to the top and allow the bars to cool completely before cutting into squares. These are really sweet and rich, so that will determine how big you want to make these.

Chocolate Layer Instructions

Melt milk chocolate in microwave in 30 second increments, stirring each time to get the chocolate mixed up to melt evenly for up to 1 ½ to 2 minutes total until melted.
Dip tops in melted chocolate and place on parchment or baking rack. Add sea salt immediately after dipping into chocolate and let chocolate set.
Place bars in tins or a nice party tray and enjoy!

Notes

Add a splash of bourbon to your bars to give them a boozy feel.
The smaller pecan pie bars in the photos are about 1 inch, so you will get a lot more of these per batch.

Recipe slightly adapted from: Dinner At the Zoo