Irresistible Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars: A Classic Sweet Treat Recipe
There are some desserts that just feel like a warm hug, and these Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars are undoubtedly one of them. This incredible recipe, which comes highly recommended by our friend Janet after it was a massive hit at her recent gathering, combines the best elements of several beloved treats. If you have a soft spot for the comforting sweetness of butterscotch, the chewy texture of raisins, and the rich crunch of pecans, then prepare to fall in love with these delightful bars. They offer a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from your average baked good.
Imagine the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of a buttery shortbread crust, topped with a luscious filling that strikes a perfect balance between the fruity depth of a classic raisin pie and the nutty richness of a pecan pie. Unlike some traditional pecan pies, these bars are less gooey, offering a satisfyingly firm yet tender texture that makes them ideal for slicing and serving. The raisins truly shine here, contributing a predominant flavor and a wonderful chewiness that is essential to the character of these bars. Without them, the magic simply wouldn’t be the same. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary, perfect for sharing with friends, family, or simply indulging in a quiet moment of sweet bliss.
Why These Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars Are Your Next Baking Project
These bars are more than just a dessert; they are an experience. Their charm lies in their harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The base provides a sturdy yet crumbly foundation, contrasting beautifully with the rich, dense filling. The butterscotch notes from the brown sugar infuse a deep, caramel-like sweetness, while the plump raisins burst with fruity goodness. Each bite is punctuated by the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans, adding another layer of complexity and a delightful nutty aroma. They’re incredibly versatile too, suitable for a casual afternoon snack, a sophisticated dessert for a dinner party, or a thoughtful homemade gift. Easy to transport and simple to prepare, these bars are a fantastic addition to any baker’s repertoire, promising rave reviews and empty plates every time.
The Perfect Blend of Simplicity and Decadence
What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its balance of straightforward preparation with an outcome that tastes wonderfully decadent. You don’t need advanced baking skills to create these impressive treats. The crust comes together quickly in a food processor, and the filling is just as easy to whip up. The result is a dessert that looks sophisticated but is surprisingly forgiving to make. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, these Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars offer a rewarding and delicious baking adventure. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is a treat in itself, promising the deliciousness to come.
Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars Recipe
Classic Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars
Recipe adapted by Cookie Madness from Cooking.com & Elinor Klivans
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
For the Buttery Crust:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour** (140 grams)
- ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (25 grams, plus extra for dusting)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt (0.5 ml)
- 1 stick (114 grams) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the Rich Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Filling:
- 1 cup packed dark brown sugar (200 grams)
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream (60 ml)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (10 ml)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (2.5 ml)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (1 ml)
- ⅔ to 1 ½ cups raisins (120 to 225 grams, adjust to your preference)
- 1 ½ cups pecans (140 grams) coarsely chopped and lightly toasted
Instructions
Preparing the Crust:
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Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch square metal baking pan by lining it with aluminum foil, ensuring a slight overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Lightly spray the foil with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Pulse briefly until thoroughly mixed. Add the cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, and pulse again until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
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Evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden. Set aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Crafting the Delicious Filling:
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For the filling, either use your food processor (no need to clean it after the crust) or a large mixing bowl with a whisk. Combine the packed dark brown sugar, heavy whipping cream, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Process or whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Next, add the two tablespoons of all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix or process again just until these dry ingredients are fully incorporated and the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
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In a separate small bowl, combine the raisins and the coarsely chopped, toasted pecans. Spread this mixture evenly over the partially baked crust in the pan.
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Carefully pour the smooth butterscotch filling mixture over the raisins and pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Return the pan to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the filling is set. You can check for doneness by gently shaking the pan; the center should no longer be liquid and should jiggle only slightly.
Cooling and Serving:
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Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. This is crucial for them to set properly.
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Once cooled, use the foil overhang to lift the entire slab of bars out of the pan. If desired, lightly dust the top with extra confectioners’ sugar for a touch of elegance. Using a sharp knife, cut the bars into 16 equal portions. Transfer the finished bars to a serving platter and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars
- **Measure Accurately:** Especially with flour, using a kitchen scale for grams (as provided in the recipe) will give the most consistent results for the crust.
- **Cold Butter is Key:** For the crust, ensure your butter is very cold. This helps create that flaky, tender shortbread texture.
- **Don’t Overmix the Crust:** Pulse just until crumbs form. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to a tough crust.
- **Toast Your Pecans:** Toasting pecans brings out their natural oils and enhances their nutty flavor, making a significant difference in the final taste of the bars. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- **Adjust Raisin Quantity:** The recipe suggests ⅔ to 1½ cups of raisins. If you’re a big raisin fan, go for the higher amount! If not, stick closer to ⅔ cup or even try a mix of dried cranberries and raisins for a tart twist.
- **Cool Completely:** Patience is a virtue here! Letting the bars cool completely is essential for the filling to fully set, ensuring clean cuts and a perfect texture.
- **Sharp Knife:** For neat slices, use a sharp, clean knife. You can even run it under hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
Variations and Customizations
While this classic recipe is delightful as is, feel free to experiment with these variations:
- **Nut Substitutions:** Not a pecan fan? Walnuts or even a mix of pecans and walnuts would work wonderfully. Almonds could also offer a different flavor profile.
- **Dried Fruit Alternatives:** If raisins aren’t your favorite, try dried cranberries, chopped dried apricots, or a mix of dried fruits. Just ensure they are finely chopped if large.
- **Add Chocolate:** A handful of mini chocolate chips or butterscotch chips could be stirred into the filling for an extra layer of indulgence.
- **Spice It Up:** A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the filling can add a warm, inviting spice note, especially during the colder months.
- **Gluten-Free Option:** For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour in both the crust and the filling with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose baking blend.
Storage Instructions
These Butterscotch Raisin Pecan Bars store beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead dessert. Once cooled and cut, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: Can I use light brown sugar instead of dark brown sugar?
- A: While you can, dark brown sugar is highly recommended. It contains more molasses, which contributes to the rich, butterscotch-like flavor and a deeper, chewier texture in the filling. Light brown sugar will still work but might result in a slightly less intense flavor and a marginally different texture.
- Q: My bars are too crumbly/too hard. What went wrong?
- A: If your crust is too crumbly, it might have been overbaked or the butter wasn’t cold enough. If the entire bar is too hard, the filling might have been overbaked. Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on the visual cues mentioned in the instructions (lightly golden crust, set but slightly jiggling filling). Using an oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
- Q: Can I make these in a different size pan?
- A: A 9×13 inch pan would result in thinner bars and would likely require reducing the baking time for both the crust and the filling. A smaller pan (e.g., 8×8 inch) would make thicker bars and might require an increase in baking time. Adjust accordingly and monitor for doneness.