Butter Pecan Cheesecake Bars
The pecan and butter cheesecake bars are what happens when you combine two of my favorite desserts, the pecan pie and the cheesecake. These three-layer succulent bars are truly amazing!
Ingredients
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 10 oz package caramel baking chips
- 1/2 cup butter melted
- 2 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup bits-o-brickle toffee chips
- 1 15.25 oz Butter Pecan Cake Mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans plus 2 Tbsp divided
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Whipped cream optional
Instructions
First, preheat the oven to 350 ° F. Lightly spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Put aside.
Then, spread 1 cup chopped pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Grill for 6-8 minutes. Cool. (2 remaining tablespoons NOT grilled reserved for the top)
Place the caramel chips and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Melt in 30-second increments, stopping to stir each time. Repeat until smooth.
Using an electric mixer, beat together the cake mix, 1 large egg and 1 stick of melted butter. Mix until completely moistened, then mix 1/2 cup toasted chopped pecans. Press evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
In the same mixing bowl, mix the cream cheese and vanilla for 1 minute. Drizzle with melted caramel. Beat until smooth to medium-high.
Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition.
Reduce the speed of the mixer and gradually add the powdered sugar. Once everything has been added, increase to a medium-high beat for 1 minute or until it is completely smooth and slightly thickened.
Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup toasted pecans. (Remember, 2 tablespoons have been reserved for the garnish that is NOT toasted)
Pour the filling over the crust. Sprinkle the top with pieces of caramel and 2 tsp. Chopped pecans.
Bake 40 to 50 minutes or until the mixture is puffy and the center is set when gently stirred. Do not overcook.
Let cool completely and refrigerate. Serve sprinkled with powdered sugar and a spoonful of whipped cream.
Keep leftovers refrigerated. Happy Cooking Time.
