Caramel Pecan Dream Bars
### Ingredients:
#### Crust:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
#### Filling:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
#### Topping:
– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of flour and 1/4 cup of brown sugar.
– Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
– Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
– Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. **Make the Filling:**
– In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until slightly foamy.
– Add in 1 cup of brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
– Stir in the chopped pecans and coconut (if using).
– Pour the filling over the baked crust.
3. **Bake the Bars:**
– Bake the bars for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set and lightly browned.
– Remove from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
4. **Add the Topping:**
– Once the bars have cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the top.
– Sprinkle with the chopped pecans.
5. **Serve:**
– Cut the bars into squares and serve.
– These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Enjoy your Caramel Pecan Dream Bars! They’re rich, nutty, and perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.