If you’re a fan of classic pecan pie but crave an easier, bite-sized version that’s perfect for snacking or gifting, this Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark is your new favorite treat. With crunchy toasted pecans coated in a rich, buttery caramel glaze and finished with a hint of sea salt, this bark delivers all the cozy, sweet flavors of traditional pecan pie in a crisp, candy-like form.
This quick and simple recipe comes together with just five ingredients and minimal prep. It’s ideal for holidays, potlucks, dessert tables, or anytime you’re craving a sweet, nutty snack with irresistible crunch.
🍯 Why You’ll Love Pecan Pie Bark
- Fast and easy: No rolling pins or pie crusts required — ready in under 30 minutes.
- Sweet, salty, and crunchy: Perfect balance of caramelized sugar, toasted nuts, and a hint of salt.
- Great for gifting: Package in jars or bags for a thoughtful homemade treat.
- Stores well: Keeps fresh for up to two weeks in an airtight container.
📝 Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound pecan halves — Provides crunch and rich nutty flavor.
- 1 cup packed brown sugar — Gives the caramel a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter — Adds richness and helps caramelize the sugar.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract — Enhances the warm, sweet flavor.
- ½ teaspoon sea salt — Balances the sweetness with a touch of saltiness.
⏱️ Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yields: About 8 servings
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Baking Sheet
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Toast the Pecans
- Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they’re fragrant and lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
3. Make the Caramel Coating
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in the brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture reaches a gentle boil.
- Let boil for 2–3 minutes without stirring.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and sea salt.
4. Coat the Pecans
- Place the toasted pecans in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the warm caramel mixture over the pecans and toss to coat evenly.
5. Bake the Bark
- Return the caramel-coated pecans to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them out into an even layer.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until the caramel is bubbly and pecans are well-coated.
6. Cool and Break Into Pieces
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
- While still warm but set, break the pecan clusters into pieces.
- Allow to cool completely.
7. Store and Enjoy
- Once cooled, transfer the pecan pie bark to an airtight container.
- Store at room temperature for up to two weeks — if they last that long!
💡 Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Bark
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Watch the caramel closely to prevent burning — it should be bubbly and golden, not dark brown.
- For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the bark once cooled.
- Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt after baking for a sweet-salty contrast.
🎁 Great for Gifting
Package your homemade pecan pie bark in festive jars, tins, or treat bags for:
- Holiday gifts
- Party favors
- Teacher appreciation
- Hostess gifts
It’s an easy, elegant, and addictive snack everyone will appreciate.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark brings together the flavors of a Southern pecan pie with the crunchy, snackable texture of brittle or toffee. It’s buttery, sweet, crunchy, and perfectly satisfying for anyone with a sweet tooth. Whether you’re prepping for the holidays or just treating yourself, this bark recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Print
Irresistible Pecan Pie Bark Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 8 servings 1x
Description
Crispy, sweet, buttery pecan bark with all the flavors of classic pecan pie — perfect for snacking, gifting, or holiday dessert tables!
Ingredients
-
1 pound pecan halves
-
1 cup packed brown sugar
-
½ cup unsalted butter
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ teaspoon sea salt
Instructions
-
Prepare the Baking Sheet:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. -
Toast the Pecans:
Spread pecans in a single layer and toast for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until fragrant and golden. Cool slightly. -
Make the Caramel Mixture:
Melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and bring to a gentle boil. Let boil for 2–3 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and sea salt. -
Coat the Pecans:
Toss toasted pecans with caramel mixture until evenly coated. -
Bake the Bark:
Spread coated pecans back on the baking sheet. Bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes, until caramel is bubbly and pecans are glossy. -
Cool and Break:
Cool for 10 minutes, then break into clusters while still warm. Let cool completely.
-
Store:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
Enjoy this sweet, crunchy, addictive pecan treat anytime you need a quick dessert or edible gift!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
