Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
- Cold unsalted butter, cubed: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
- Brown sugar, packed: 1/4 cup
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Maple syrup: 1/2 cup
- Heavy cream: 1/4 cup
- Pecan halves: 1 1/2 cups
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides.
- Step 2: In a food processor, combine flour, cold butter, brown sugar, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Step 3: Bake the crust for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Step 4: While the crust is baking, in a saucepan, combine maple syrup, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar is dissolved.
- Step 5: Remove the crust from the oven and pour the maple syrup mixture over it. Sprinkle the pecan halves evenly over the syrup.
- Step 6: Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and golden brown. Let cool completely in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper overhang and cutting into bars. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
Notes
- Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Warm individual bars in the microwave for 5-10 seconds to soften the filling slightly before serving.
- Serve these bars cut into small squares alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- For the best flavor, use high-quality maple syrup and be careful not to overbake the filling, as it can become too hard.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American