Pin Chewy, nutty bites featuring a hint of root beer, gooey caramel, and toasted pecans—perfect for parties or gifting.
I first made these for a holiday cookie swap, and they quickly became everyone's favorite. The buttery base and gooey caramel make for an irresistible combination.
Ingredients
- Base: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened), 1/4 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 tsp salt
- Caramel Layer: 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 2 tbsp heavy cream, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 tsp root beer extract
- Topping: 3/4 cup pecan halves (toasted and roughly chopped), 1/4 cup caramel candies (melted, optional drizzle), flaky sea salt for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
- Make Base:
- Cream together butter and powdered sugar for the base until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Bake Base:
- Press dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 12–14 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
- Caramel Layer:
- Combine brown sugar and butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes.
- Thicken Caramel:
- Add heavy cream and salt. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in root beer extract.
- Assemble Layers:
- Pour caramel evenly over the cooled base. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top, gently pressing them into the caramel.
- Finish & Cool:
- Optional: Drizzle melted caramel candies over the pecans for extra sweetness. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Allow to cool completely, then refrigerate for 30 minutes for easier slicing.
- Serve:
- Lift from pan and cut into 24 bite-sized squares.
Pin Every time I make these, the whole family gathers in the kitchen, eager to get the first taste and help with slicing.
Required Tools
8x8-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, saucepan, electric mixer or whisk, parchment paper, sharp knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (butter, heavy cream), gluten (flour), and tree nuts (pecans). Always read ingredient labels for caramel candies and extract.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 120, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 12 g, Protein: 1 g
Pin Serve these bites at room temperature for best texture. They make delightful treats packed in festive boxes for holiday gifting.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts can substitute pecans, offering a similar texture and nutty flavor for versatile bites.
- → How do I enhance root beer flavor?
Add an extra 1/2 teaspoon of root beer extract to the caramel layer for a bolder, more aromatic taste.
- → Do I need a caramel drizzle?
The caramel drizzle is optional, but it adds extra sweetness and a glossy finish on top of the pecans.
- → Is refrigeration necessary before serving?
Refrigeration helps the bites set, making slicing easier and resulting in clean, even squares.
- → How should these treats be stored?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, these bites contain no meat—just dairy, nuts, and grains, making them suitable for vegetarian diets.