Salted Caramel Pecan Delights (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Crust

01 - 227 grams unsalted butter, softened
02 - 100 grams granulated sugar
03 - 250 grams all-purpose flour
04 - 2.5 grams salt

→ Filling

05 - 200 grams granulated sugar
06 - 240 milliliters heavy cream
07 - 57 grams unsalted butter
08 - 5 milliliters vanilla extract
09 - 2.5 grams sea salt
10 - 200 grams pecan halves, roughly chopped

→ Topping

11 - Additional sea salt, for sprinkling
12 - Melted chocolate, for drizzling (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease a 23x33-centimeter baking dish with butter or line with parchment paper.
02 - In a medium bowl, cream softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until combined.
03 - Press crust mixture evenly into prepared baking dish using hands or the back of a measuring cup. Bake for 15–20 minutes until lightly golden, then allow to cool slightly.
04 - In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine granulated sugar and heavy cream, stirring until sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle simmer, add butter, and stir until slightly thickened, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in vanilla extract and sea salt.
05 - Fold chopped pecans into the warm caramel mixture, ensuring even coating.
06 - Spread the caramel pecan mixture evenly over the cooled crust. Return to oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until caramel is bubbling and beginning to set.
07 - Allow to cool completely on a wire rack. Sprinkle with additional sea salt and, if desired, drizzle melted chocolate over the top. Cut into squares or bars.
08 - Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired.

# Notes:

01 - Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to ensure clean cuts and optimal texture.