Introduction in Alex Guarnaschelli’s Style:
There’s something deeply satisfying about a dessert that’s rich, buttery, and full of crunch. These Graham Cracker Pecan Cookie Bars check every box—they’re crispy, chewy, caramelized, and studded with toasted pecans.
The magic happens when graham crackers form the base, and a luscious, buttery brown sugar mixture seeps into every crevice, creating an almost toffee-like texture. Topped with crunchy pecans, these bars are a little salty, a little sweet, and completely addictive.
They’re easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and disappear faster than you can say “just one more bite.”Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when you need a dessert that’s both simple and spectacular.
Recipe Resume in Todd Wilbur’s Style:
These Graham Cracker Pecan Cookie Bars are rich, buttery, and loaded with caramelized pecan goodness. The secret? A quick stovetop mix of butter, brown sugar, and vanilla, which bakes into a chewy, toffee-like topping over crisp graham crackers.
With only six ingredients and no complicated steps, these bars are a foolproof, crowd-pleasing dessert!
Exciting Story:
The first time I made these bars, I was looking for an easy dessert that felt special but didn’t require a mixer. I had graham crackers, butter, brown sugar, and pecans on hand, so I decided to wing it.
The moment I pulled them from the oven, I knew I had created something dangerously good. That first bite? Crispy edges, gooey caramelized center, and the perfect nutty crunch. Now, these bars are a must-make for family gatherings and holiday trays!
Why You’ll Love These Graham Cracker Pecan Cookie Bars
🍯🍪 Buttery, Crunchy & So Easy to Make!
✔ 6 simple ingredients—no special equipment required!
✔ A crisp graham cracker base topped with gooey, caramelized pecans.
✔ Ready in under 30 minutes!
✔ Perfect balance of salty-sweet flavors.
✔ Ideal for parties, gifting, or a quick sweet fix.
Cuisine: American / Classic Southern-Inspired Desserts
Tips for the Best Graham Cracker Pecan Cookie Bars
✔ Use high-quality butter – It makes the caramel richer!
✔ Don’t overbake – The caramel will firm up as it cools.
✔ For even layers – Press the pecans gently into the caramel before baking.
✔ Love extra crunch? – Toast the pecans for a deeper flavor.
✔ Make them ahead – These bars store beautifully for up to a week!
Substitutions and Variations
🔹 No pecans? – Use almonds, walnuts, or cashews!
🔹 Dairy-Free? – Swap butter for vegan butter or coconut oil.
🔹 Gluten-Free? – Use gluten-free graham crackers.
🔹 Want it extra gooey? – Drizzle with sweetened condensed milk before baking!
Make a Healthier Version
✅ Use coconut sugar – A less refined sweetener than brown sugar.
✅ Swap butter for coconut oil – Keeps it dairy-free and slightly lighter.
✅ Go for whole wheat graham crackers – Adds a bit of fiber.
✅ Reduce sugar – Cut the brown sugar by ¼ cup for a less sweet version.
Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style:
And there you have it—Graham Cracker Pecan Cookie Bars that are buttery, crispy, and completely irresistible!With a crunchy graham cracker base and a caramelized pecan topping, this dessert is pure magic in every bite.
Make a batch today, and watch them disappear in minutes!
Relevant Categories:
- Classic Cookie Bar Recipes
- Easy No-Mixer Desserts
- Southern-Inspired Treats
- Holiday & Potluck Favorites
Tags:
- Best Graham Cracker Pecan Bars Recipe
- Easy Toffee Cookie Bars
- Southern Caramel Pecan Bars
- Crispy & Chewy Dessert Bars
Graham Cracker Pecan Cookie Bars
Description
These Graham Cracker Pecan Cookie Bars are rich, buttery, and loaded with caramelized pecan goodness.
Ingredients
- 12 graham crackers (full sheets, broken into halves or quarters)
- ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) unsalted butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm, spiced twist!)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (sprinkled on top after baking for a melty finish!)
- Flaky sea salt (for a salty-sweet contrast!)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep & Preheat
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or foil for easy removal.
Step 2: Arrange the Graham Crackers
- Lay the graham cracker sheets in a single layer at the bottom of the baking pan. (Break them as needed to fit snugly.)
Step 3: Make the Buttery Caramel Topping
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and brown sugar, stirring until smooth.
- Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in salt, vanilla, and chopped pecans.
Step 4: Pour & Bake
- Pour the buttery pecan mixture evenly over the graham crackers, spreading with a spatula.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the caramel is bubbling and golden brown.
Step 5: Cool & Slice!
- Let the bars cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a cutting board.
- Slice into bars and enjoy warm or at room temperature!
