Imagine sinking your teeth into a luxurious dessert that combines the rich, nutty essence of pecans with the irresistible allure of chocolate – all without breaking a sweat in the kitchen! These Pecan Butter Millionaire Bars are not just a treat; they're a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet masterpiece. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to deliver mind-blowing flavor with minimal effort, making you look like a dessert genius in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan butter
- 1 cup oats
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing excess paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pecan butter, rolled oats, and maple syrup. Mix thoroughly until a cohesive, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Press the pecan butter and oat mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan, creating a firm, compact base layer. Use the back of a spoon or spatula to smooth the surface.
- Bake the base in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the surface appears set.
- Remove from the oven and allow the base to cool completely at room temperature for approximately 20-25 minutes. The cooling is crucial for structural integrity.
- Melt the dark chocolate chips using a double boiler or in short microwave intervals, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Once the base is completely cool, pour the melted chocolate evenly over the top, using a spatula to spread it to the edges.
- Refrigerate the bars for 30-45 minutes, or until the chocolate layer has fully set and hardened.
- Using the overhanging parchment paper, lift the entire batch out of the pan and place on a cutting board.
- Slice into 16 even squares using a sharp knife, cleaning the blade between cuts for precise edges.
- Store the bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer preservation.
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing and better texture consistency.
- For extra smoothness, toast your oats lightly before mixing for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- When melting chocolate, use low heat and stir constantly to prevent burning.
- Allow each layer to cool completely to ensure clean, distinct layers.
- Use a sharp, clean knife dipped in hot water for perfectly smooth bar cuts.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free dark chocolate chips.
- Store bars in the refrigerator to maintain their firm texture and extend shelf life.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a gourmet touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
