Toffee Pecan Dream Bars are a rich, indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of buttery cake, sweetened condensed milk, crunchy pecans, and chocolatey toffee bits. These bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or a special treat at home. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own Toffee Pecan Dream Bars.
Ingredients
For 1x Batch:
- 1 package yellow cake mix (or butter cake mix)
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup softened butter
- ½ cup Heath milk chocolate toffee bits
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For 2x Batch:
- 2 packages yellow cake mix (or butter cake mix)
- 2 cans sweetened condensed milk
- 4 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup softened butter
- 1 cup Heath milk chocolate toffee bits
- 2 cups chopped pecans
For 3x Batch:
- 3 packages yellow cake mix (or butter cake mix)
- 3 cans sweetened condensed milk
- 6 eggs
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups softened butter
- 1 ½ cups Heath milk chocolate toffee bits
- 3 cups chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan (for 1x batch) or adjust the pan size if scaling up the recipe.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, softened butter, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined and smooth.
- Press the cake mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. This forms the base of your dream bars.
Step 3: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk Layer
- In a small bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the cake base, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the sweetened condensed milk layer.
- Sprinkle the Heath milk chocolate toffee bits evenly over the top.
Step 5: Bake the Bars
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Once cooled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles.
- Serve the Toffee Pecan Dream Bars as a decadent dessert or snack.
Cook’s Notes
- Cake Mix: Yellow cake mix adds a classic flavor, but butter cake mix can be used for a richer taste.
- Toffee Bits: For extra crunch, you can use additional toffee bits or mix them with the pecans.
- Pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them to the bars enhances their flavor.
Variations
Chocolate Drizzled Toffee Pecan Bars
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled bars before cutting them for an extra layer of sweetness.
Coconut Toffee Pecan Bars
Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the sweetened condensed milk layer for a tropical twist.
Nutty Dream Bars
Substitute or mix the pecans with other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
Salted Caramel Toffee Bars
Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cooled bars for a sweet and salty contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Yes, Toffee Pecan Dream Bars can be made a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
3. Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, you can freeze Toffee Pecan Dream Bars. Wrap each bar tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
4. What can I serve with these bars?
These bars are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
5. Can I use a different type of toffee bits?
Yes, you can use plain toffee bits or even chopped up toffee candy bars if you prefer.
Toffee Pecan Dream Bars are a rich and decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery cake base, creamy condensed milk layer, crunchy pecans, and sweet toffee bits, these bars are sure to be a hit. Whether you’re making them for a party, holiday, or just because, this easy recipe will deliver delicious results every time. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful bars!
