She Strengthens

Decadent Delights: Chocolate Caramel Pecan Cookie Bars

Are you a fan of rich, indulgent treats? Look no further! These scrumptious cookie bars combine the best of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in one irresistible package.

The Perfect Combination

Imagine a chewy chocolate chip cookie base, topped with a layer of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of velvety chocolate. It’s a match made in heaven!

Easy to Make

Don’t be intimidated by the complexity of these bars – they’re surprisingly easy to whip up. With just 14 ingredients and a few simple steps, you’ll be indulging in these sweet treats in no time.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 6 Tbsp brown sugar
• 6 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (divided)
• 1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans
• 24 Kraft caramels (unwrapped)
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 3/4 cup whole pecan halves
• 1 teaspoon shortening

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, cream together butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract using an electric mixer.

Mix and Match

In another bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. Stir in 3/4 cup of chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans.

Bake and Cool

Press the dough into an ungreased 8-inch square baking pan and bake for 28-33 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a cooling rack.

Caramel Delight

Meanwhile, heat the caramels and milk in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently, until melted and smooth. Spread the caramel mixture evenly over the warm cookie bars and sprinkle with pecan halves.

Finishing Touches

In a small microwaveable bowl, melt 1/4 cup of chocolate chips and 1 tsp shortening in 30-60 seconds, stirring every 15 seconds. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cookie bars and let stand for 30 minutes or until set. Cut into 4 rows by 4 rows and indulge!