Caramel Pecan Fudge Bars – And This One Steals the Show!

Bylina

Introduction: The Ultimate Sweet Tooth Satisfaction

If there’s one dessert that checks every single box—sweet, salty, crunchy, gooey—it’s these Caramel Pecan Fudge Bars. The first time I made them, I didn’t expect them to disappear so quickly. But within minutes, they were gone. Not a crumb in sight. My family was hooked. And honestly? So was I.

These bars are perfect for everything from bake sales to holiday dessert platters, or just an indulgent weekend treat. Imagine a soft, buttery crust, layered with rich chocolate fudge, a golden caramel drizzle, and crunchy toasted pecans. Each bite is pure heaven!

If you’re looking for a dessert that steals the show—this one’s it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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For the Crust Layer:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 ½ cups brown sugar (packed)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

For the Fudge Layer:

  • 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Pecan Topping:

  • 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
  • 1 ½ cups chopped pecans (toasted if preferred)
  • Flaky sea salt (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.

Step 2: Make the Buttery Crust

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla extract, and mix well.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined.

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 3: Create the Fudge Layer

While the crust is baking, make the fudge filling. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter. Heat over medium-low, stirring constantly until smooth and melted. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

Pour the fudge mixture evenly over the warm crust.

Step 4: Add the Caramel Pecan Magic

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits and cream. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.

Drizzle the caramel over the fudge layer, then sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the top. Lightly press them in so they stick.

Optional: Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty contrast.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 12–15 minutes, just until the caramel is bubbling and pecans are slightly toasted.

Remove from the oven and let cool completely—then refrigerate for 1–2 hours before slicing for clean cuts.

Serving & Storing Tips

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  • Slice into squares or rectangles—they look beautiful on dessert platters.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freeze for later: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

These bars also make amazing edible gifts! Wrap individually and tie with ribbon for holidays or special occasions.

Recipe Variations & Ideas

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Love to experiment? Here are a few fun variations:

  • Use different nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts work beautifully.
  • Add coconut: Mix shredded coconut into the fudge layer for a twist.
  • Salted caramel twist: Use salted caramel chips or stir sea salt into the caramel layer.
  • Peanut butter lovers: Swap chocolate chips for peanut butter chips and drizzle melted chocolate on top.

Why Everyone Falls in Love with These Bars

  • Texture overload (in the best way): Buttery crust, creamy fudge, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans.
  • Visually stunning: Great for parties and photos!
  • Make-ahead friendly: Prepare in advance and serve when ready.
  • Crowd-approved: Whether for a potluck or just your own family, they’ll disappear fast.

Let’s just say—you might want to make a double batch. One for the party… and one for your secret stash.

Final Thoughts: Bake Once, Fall in Love Forever

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s next-level delicious, these Caramel Pecan Fudge Bars are it. Rich, indulgent, and totally unforgettable—they’re the kind of treat people beg for after one bite.

They’re simple enough for a weekday craving and elegant enough for a celebration. But no matter when you serve them, one thing’s guaranteed: everyone will ask for the recipe.

So go ahead, give these a try—and just like my husband with his favorite snack balls, you’ll see why this one steals the show.