Pecan Pie Bark: Easy Holiday Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, easy, and delivers big flavor with minimal effort. There’s no dough to roll out or filling to carefully set—just a quick caramel base poured over buttery crackers and baked into golden, gooey perfection. The texture is addictive: crisp, chewy, and rich with toasted pecans. It’s also ideal for gifting or serving at parties because it stores well and makes a generous batch.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz or digestive)

• 1 cup unsalted butter

• 1 cup brown sugar

• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

• Caramel sauce for drizzling (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the base: I start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper and arranging the crackers in a single layer to fully cover the surface.

2. Make the caramel pecan topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, I melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring constantly until it comes to a gentle boil. I let it cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove it from heat and stir in the chopped pecans, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon if I’m using it.

3. Assemble and bake: I pour the hot caramel mixture over the crackers and use a spatula to spread it evenly. Then I bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until it’s bubbling and golden.

4. Cool and finish: After baking, I let it cool completely in the pan. Once it’s set, I drizzle it with caramel sauce for extra richness (optional), then break it into bite-sized pieces.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings. It only takes 10 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to bake, so I can go from craving to enjoying in just over 20 minutes. Perfect for last-minute holiday needs or when I want something sweet without the wait.

Variations

Here are some ways I like to customize it:

• Add chocolate: I drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the bark once cooled for a more decadent treat.

• Sweet and salty twist: A sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the top balances the sweetness beautifully.

• Spiced version: I add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice along with the cinnamon for more warmth.

• Different nuts: Walnuts or almonds work great if I’m out of pecans.

• Gluten-free option: I use gluten-free buttery crackers to make it friendly for everyone.

Storage and Reheating

Once cooled, I store the bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. It stays crisp and fresh—perfect for snacking or packing into gift tins. I don’t recommend reheating it, since it’s meant to be enjoyed at room temp with that signature snap and chew.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. I often make it a day or two ahead—it actually gets even better as it sits and the flavors meld.

What type of crackers work best?

I use buttery crackers like Ritz or digestive biscuits. They give the perfect crunchy, slightly salty base that complements the sweet topping.

Can I freeze pecan pie bark?

I don’t usually freeze it, since the texture can become soggy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh within a few days.

Is this the same as toffee bark?

It’s similar in process but richer in flavor thanks to the pecans and cinnamon. This version is more like pecan pie in bite-sized, bark form.

How do I get clean pieces when breaking it?

I let it cool completely, then use my hands or a sharp knife to break it into rustic pieces. For neater cuts, I refrigerate it briefly before cutting.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Bark is everything I love about the holidays in one crunchy, gooey bite. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a flavor that tastes like homemade pie with a twist, it’s become one of my favorite desserts to make and share. Whether I’m setting out a tray for guests or sneaking a bite with coffee, it always brings that perfect mix of sweet, salty, and satisfying.

Pecan Pie Bark: Easy Holiday Recipe

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• Author: Mia
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This easy pecan pie bark is the ultimate holiday treat—crispy, buttery crackers layered with rich caramel and toasted pecans for a crunchy, gooey twist on the classic pie.

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Ingredients

1 sleeve buttery crackers (like Ritz or digestive)

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup brown sugar

1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Caramel sauce for drizzle (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the base: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the crackers in a single layer to cover the surface.

Make the caramel pecan topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together. Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, and cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Add flavor: Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans, salt, vanilla, and cinnamon if using.

Assemble: Pour the hot pecan mixture evenly over the crackers and spread it with a spatula to coat.

Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until bubbly and golden.

Cool and finish: Let cool completely in the pan. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired. Once fully set, break into pieces and serve.

Notes

Use high-quality buttery crackers for a crisp base.

Optional sea salt sprinkle enhances sweet-salty flavor.

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American