Pecan Pie Bark: Buttery, Crunchy & Made for Sharing
If you love the flavor of pecan pie but want a snackable version that doesn’t require a fork and plate, this bark is your new go-to. It features a crisp, buttery base topped with a layer of slow-cooked caramel and a generous crowning of toasted pecans. It is designed to be broken into irregular, rustic pieces, making it ideal for holiday gifting or casual get-togethers.
Why This Bark is a Showstopper
- The Perfect Snap: Unlike soft pralines, this bark has a distinct, brittle-like crunch that satisfies the palate.
- Intense Caramel Depth: Using brown sugar and butter creates a deep, toffee-like flavor that perfectly complements the earthiness of the nuts.
- Effortless Sharing: No slicing required—just break it apart and let everyone grab a piece.
Ingredients
| Category | Item | Quantity | Role |
| The Base | Graham Crackers | 12–15 sheets | Provides the sturdy, crunchy foundation. |
| The Toffee | Unsalted Butter | 1 cup | For a rich, buttery caramelization. |
| Light Brown Sugar | 1 cup | Adds the signature molasses sweetness. | |
| The Topping | Pecan Halves | 1.5 cups | Toasted and roughly chopped. |
| Sea Salt | A pinch | To balance the sweetness and enhance the nuts. |
Instructions
1. Build the Foundation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the graham cracker sheets in a single, tight layer, breaking them as needed to ensure the entire bottom of the pan is covered.
2. Craft the Butter Toffee
In a medium saucepan, combine the butter and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and the mixture reaches a rolling boil. Let it boil for exactly 3 minutes without stirring—this ensures the toffee develops the correct “bark” structure.
3. Layer and Bake
Immediately pour the hot toffee mixture over the graham crackers, spreading it quickly with a spatula to cover every corner. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and a pinch of sea salt evenly over the top. Bake for 8–10 minutes until the toffee is bubbling and the pecans are fragrant.
4. The Setting Process
Remove the pan from the oven. While still warm, you can gently press down on the pecans with a spatula to ensure they are anchored in the toffee. Allow the bark to cool completely at room temperature for at least 1 hour, then transfer to the refrigerator for 30 minutes to fully harden.
5. Break and Share
Once the bark is cold and firm, lift the parchment paper out of the pan. Use your hands to break the slab into various-sized pieces. The irregular edges are part of the charm!
Pro-Tips for the Best Bark
- Toast Your Nuts: For a deeper flavor, lightly toast your pecans in a dry pan for 3 minutes before adding them to the bark.
- Avoid the Humidity: Like all sugar-based candies, this bark can become sticky in very humid environments. Store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
- Chocolate Variation: For an even more decadent treat, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bark before breaking it apart.
