There’s something downright magical about the combination of buttery caramel, toasted pecans, and a touch of chocolate—all layered over crispy saltine crackers. This Pecan Pie Bark is like a mash-up of holiday pecan pie and the easiest candy you’ll ever make. Perfect for gifting (if you can resist eating it all first!) or for a quick, show-stopping dessert.
If you’re as obsessed with quick-to-make, crowd-pleasing treats as I am, you’ve just found your new favorite recipe. 💛 Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Sweet Meets Salty: The saltines provide the perfect base to balance the rich caramel and pecans.
- Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a dessert that tastes gourmet.
- Versatile: Chocolate chips are optional, but they take this bark over the top. Add your favorite toppings like shredded coconut or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flair.
- No-Fuss Prep: No candy thermometer required!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this irresistible treat:
- 1 sleeve of saltine crackers 🧂
- 1 cup unsalted butter 🧈 (2 sticks)
- 1 cup brown sugar 🍬
- 1 cup chopped pecans 🌰
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍨
- A pinch of salt 🧂
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips 🍫
Tools You’ll Need
- A baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Spatula or offset knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, making sure the entire surface is covered.
2. Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring frequently. Once the mixture comes to a boil, let it simmer undisturbed for about 3 minutes until thickened and caramel-like. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
3. Pour & Spread
Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the layer of saltine crackers. Use a spatula to spread it out so every cracker is coated. Sprinkle the chopped pecans generously over the top, pressing them gently into the caramel to help them stick.
4. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the pecans are beautifully toasted. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly!
5. Cool & Add Chocolate (Optional)
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bark cool slightly. If you’re adding chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly over the top while the caramel is still warm. After a minute, spread the melted chocolate into a smooth layer with a spatula or offset knife.
6. Break & Serve
Allow the bark to cool completely, either at room temperature or in the fridge to speed things up. Once set, break into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bark
- Use Good Quality Butter: Since butter is a key flavor, go for the unsalted variety for the best results.
- Keep an Eye on the Caramel: Don’t overcook it; 3 minutes of simmering is usually perfect.
- Experiment with Toppings: Crushed pretzels, a sprinkle of sea salt, or even a drizzle of white chocolate can add fun twists.
How to Serve Your Pecan Pie Bark
This bark makes an amazing treat on its own, but here are some fun serving ideas:
- Holiday Platter: Include it in a dessert tray with cookies, fudge, and truffles.
- Ice Cream Topping: Crumble it over vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a decadent sundae.
- Edible Gift: Pack pieces in a festive tin or a cellophane bag tied with a ribbon.
Storage Instructions
Store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for even longer. If you’ve added chocolate, refrigeration helps keep the layers intact.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cracker?
Absolutely! Ritz crackers or graham crackers work well if you don’t have saltines.
Can I make this nut-free?
Of course! Swap out the pecans for sunflower seeds or leave them off entirely.
Can I freeze Pecan Pie Bark?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers for up to 3 months. Let thaw at room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie Bark is the ultimate shortcut to holiday dessert success! It’s crispy, caramelized, and topped with just the right amount of pecan nuttiness and optional chocolate indulgence. Perfect for parties, gifts, or just treating yourself—it’s impossible to eat just one piece!
Did you try this recipe? Share your creations on Pinterest or drop a review below—I’d love to hear your feedback!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: ~180
- Fat: ~12g
- Carbs: ~15g
- Protein: ~1g
Looking for more holiday-inspired treats? Try my Chewy Pecan Bars or Salted Caramel Pretzel Clusters for more sweet-salty magic!
Pecan Pie Bark: The Ultimate Sweet & Salty Treat!
Ingredients
- 1 sleeve of saltine crackers 🧂
- 1 cup unsalted butter 🧈 2 sticks
- 1 cup brown sugar 🍬
- 1 cup chopped pecans 🌰
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 🍨
- A pinch of salt 🧂
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips 🍫
- Tools You’ll Need
- A baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Saucepan
- Spatula or offset knife
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer, making sure the entire surface is covered.
- Make the Caramel
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring frequently. Once the mixture comes to a boil, let it simmer undisturbed for about 3 minutes until thickened and caramel-like. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Pour & Spread
- Carefully pour the hot caramel mixture evenly over the layer of saltine crackers. Use a spatula to spread it out so every cracker is coated. Sprinkle the chopped pecans generously over the top, pressing them gently into the caramel to help them stick.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the pecans are beautifully toasted. Your kitchen will smell absolutely heavenly!
- Cool & Add Chocolate (Optional)
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bark cool slightly. If you’re adding chocolate chips, sprinkle them evenly over the top while the caramel is still warm. After a minute, spread the melted chocolate into a smooth layer with a spatula or offset knife.
- Break & Serve
- Allow the bark to cool completely, either at room temperature or in the fridge to speed things up. Once set, break into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Notes
Use Good Quality Butter: Since butter is a key flavor, go for the unsalted variety for the best results.
Keep an Eye on the Caramel: Don’t overcook it; 3 minutes of simmering is usually perfect.
Experiment with Toppings: Crushed pretzels, a sprinkle of sea salt, or even a drizzle of white chocolate can add fun twists.
