Ingredients
Scale
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, quality pecans and good chocolate really make all the difference. I always try to pick ingredients that are simple and wholesome, just like my mom taught me. Using real butter and pure maple syrup adds that authentic richness that reminds me of cozy afternoons spent baking with my kids. If you have dietary preferences or allergies, I’ve also included a few substitutions that work well without sacrificing flavor.
- 12 ounces semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (choose high-quality chocolate for best results)
- 1 cup pecan halves, toasted
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup (or substitute with light corn syrup for classic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper, making sure the edges hang over for easy removal.
- Spread the pecan halves on the baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, until fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter with the brown sugar and maple syrup, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a gentle boil. Let it boil for exactly 2 minutes to develop that rich caramel flavor.
- Remove the caramel from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt, then fold in the toasted pecans, mixing until they’re well coated.
- Pour the pecan-caramel mixture onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it evenly with a spatula.
- Melt the chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl over simmering water or in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Drizzle or spread the melted chocolate evenly over the pecan layer, using an offset spatula to smooth it out.
- Refrigerate the bark for at least 2 hours, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm.
- Once set, lift the bark out of the pan using the parchment paper edges and break into irregular pieces.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: Pecan Pie Bark, recipe, cooking, food
