Pecan Pie Bark

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Pecan Pie Bark – Buttery, Crunchy & Irresistibly Southern

Everything you love about pecan pie—caramelized pecans, buttery richness, and graham cracker crunch—in a quick, no-fuss bark that’s perfect for gifting, snacking, or holiday trays.

Introduction: A Southern Classic Reimagined

Pecan pie is a beloved Southern dessert—rich, nutty, and indulgent. But what if you could enjoy all that flavor in a fraction of the time, without rolling out a crust or waiting for a pie to set? That’s where Pecan Pie Bark comes in. This recipe takes the essence of pecan pie and transforms it into a crisp, golden bark layered over graham crackers and baked to perfection.

It’s buttery, sweet, and packed with toasted pecans. It’s also ridiculously easy to make—just five ingredients, one pan, and 30 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a party, gifting it in festive tins, or sneaking bites straight from the fridge, this bark is guaranteed to become a staple in your dessert rotation.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes this bark so addictive:

Base Ingredients:

  • Salted butter (2 sticks / 1 cup)
    Adds richness and depth. Salted butter balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty flavor.
  • Light brown sugar (1 cup)
    Creates a caramel-like base that binds the pecans and crisps up beautifully in the oven.
  • Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
    Adds warmth and rounds out the flavor.
  • Chopped pecans (1½ cups)
    The star of the show—nutty, crunchy, and perfectly toasted.
  • Graham crackers (enough to cover your baking tray)
    Serve as the base layer—sweet, crisp, and sturdy enough to hold the topping.

Optional Add-Ins: Sprinkle with sea salt, drizzle with melted chocolate, or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flair.

Equipment Needed

  • Heavy-bottomed saucepan
  • Baking tray (rimmed)
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife or hands for breaking bark
  • Oven

Optional: Use a pizza cutter for clean, uniform pieces.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Line a rimmed baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Arrange graham crackers in a single layer, covering the entire surface. Break them to fit if needed.

Tip: Use a jelly roll pan for thicker bark or a larger sheet for thinner pieces.

Step 2: Make the Pecan Mixture

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat:

  • Melt 2 sticks of salted butter.
  • Add 1 cup light brown sugar and stir until fully dissolved and bubbling—about 3–5 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in:

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1½ cups chopped pecans

Mix well until pecans are evenly coated.

Tip: Don’t overcook the sugar—it should be smooth and glossy, not grainy or separated.

Step 3: Assemble the Bark

Pour the hot pecan mixture over the graham crackers.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure every cracker is covered.

Optional: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or drizzle with melted chocolate before baking.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, until:

  • The topping is bubbling
  • Edges are golden
  • Pecans are lightly toasted

Remove from oven and let cool completely on the tray.

Tip: Cooling takes about 30–45 minutes. Don’t rush—this helps the bark set properly.

Step 5: Cut & Serve

Once cooled and firm:

  • Cut into squares or break into rustic pieces.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container.

Yields:

  • Varies (typically 20–24 pieces)

Presentation Tip: Stack in gift boxes, wrap in cellophane bags, or serve on a dessert platter with fresh fruit.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Holiday dessert trays
  • Bake sales
  • Edible gifts
  • Afternoon snacks
  • Southern-themed parties

Pair with:

  • Bourbon or spiced cider
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Coffee or sweet tea

Tip: Serve chilled for extra crunch or warm slightly for gooey indulgence.

Variations to Try

Want to make it your own? Try these delicious twists:

Chocolate Pecan Bark

Drizzle with melted dark chocolate after baking.

Coconut Pecan Bark

Add shredded coconut to the pecan mixture.

Nut Medley Bark

Use a mix of pecans, walnuts, and almonds.

Vegan Version

Use plant-based butter and graham crackers.

Citrus Twist

Add orange zest to the pecan mixture for brightness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 3 days in advance.
  • Refrigerate: Store in airtight container for up to 1 week.
  • Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.

Tip: Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Nutrition Notes (Per Piece, ~1 of 24)

  • Calories: ~300
  • Protein: ~2g
  • Carbohydrates: ~22g
  • Fat: ~20g
  • Sugar: ~18g
  • Sodium: ~150mg
  • Fiber: ~1g

This bark is:

  • Buttery and crunchy
  • Sweet and nutty
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Gifting Ideas

Pecan Pie Bark makes a fantastic edible gift. Here’s how to package it:

  • Stack in festive tins with parchment between layers
  • Wrap in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon
  • Add to cookie boxes alongside fudge, brittle, and truffles
  • Include a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch

Bonus: Pair with a mini bottle of bourbon or a jar of spiced pecans for a Southern-themed gift set.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Pie Bark is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of Southern flavor, simplicity, and indulgence. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to impress and satisfy. With its buttery crunch, caramelized topping, and nostalgic charm, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

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