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## **How to Make Toffee Pecan Dream Bars**
### **Step 1: Prepare the Crust**
Start by preheating your oven to **350°F (175°C)** and lining an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.
In a medium bowl, combine the **flour**, **granulated sugar**, and **salt**. Cut in the **softened butter** until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can use a pastry cutter, a fork, or even your hands to incorporate the butter into the dry ingredients.
Once the dough comes together, press it evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form the crust. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for **10-12 minutes**, or until it turns a light golden brown. Remove the crust from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the topping.
### **Step 2: Prepare the Topping**
In a separate bowl, mix together the **melted butter**, **sweetened condensed milk**, and **vanilla extract** (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Evenly sprinkle the **toffee bits** and **chopped pecans** over the slightly cooled crust. Then, pour the sweetened condensed milk mixture over the top, making sure to cover the entire surface of the bars.
### **Step 3: Bake the Bars**
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another **20-25 minutes**, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to make sure the toffee doesn’t burn.
The bars should have a firm, slightly chewy texture in the center, and the edges will be golden and crisp. Let the bars cool completely in the baking dish before cutting them into squares.
### **Step 4: Cut and Serve**
Once the bars have cooled to room temperature, cut them into squares using a sharp knife. You can also chill them in the refrigerator for a few hours to make cutting easier, especially if you want clean, neat squares. Serve and enjoy the delicious, gooey layers of toffee, pecans, and buttery goodness!
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## **Tips for Perfect Toffee Pecan Dream Bars**
1. **Chill the Bars Before Cutting**: If you find that the bars are too gooey to cut cleanly, place them in the fridge for **1-2 hours** to firm up. This will make it easier to slice them into neat squares.
2. **Use Fresh Pecans**: For the best flavor and texture, make sure to use fresh, unsalted pecans. You can toast them lightly in a pan for a few minutes to enhance their flavor before adding them to the bars.
3. **Play with Flavors**: You can customize this recipe by adding different mix-ins like **chocolate chips**, **dried fruit**, or a sprinkle of **sea salt** on top to balance the sweetness.
4. **Storage**: Toffee Pecan Dream Bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for **up to 5 days**. They also freeze well, so you can make them ahead of time and store them in the freezer for **up to 3 months**. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
5. **Use a Bigger Pan**: If you’d like thinner bars, you can use a 9×13-inch pan instead of an 8×8. Just adjust the baking time slightly, and keep an eye on the edges to prevent burning.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
These **Toffee Pecan Dream Bars** are perfect on their own, but here are a few ideas to elevate the experience:
– Serve them with a scoop of **vanilla ice cream** or a drizzle of **caramel sauce** for an indulgent dessert.
– Pair with a cup of **coffee** or **hot chocolate** for a cozy treat on a chilly day.
– Add a handful of **whipped cream** or a dusting of powdered sugar for a more elegant presentation when serving at a party or gathering.
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## **Final Thoughts**
**Toffee Pecan Dream Bars** are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves rich, buttery desserts with a crunchy texture and sweet, caramelized flavor. With their melt-in-your-mouth filling, crunchy pecan topping, and buttery shortbread crust, these bars are the perfect blend of indulgent flavors that will please anyone with a sweet tooth.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you deserve something sweet, this simple yet decadent recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and prepare to indulge in a slice of **Toffee Pecan Dream Bar** heaven!
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