## Carolina Butter Pecan Cake Bars: A Deliciously Spiced Treat
### Introduction to Carolina Butter Pecan Cake Bars
Carolina butter pecan cake bars are a delightful twist on classic sweet treats, perfect for any special occasion or just enjoying with family and friends. This recipe combines the rich flavors of butter and pecans with the subtle warmth of spices, creating an unforgettable dessert experience.
### Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted and coarsely chopped
- Butter and powdered sugar for topping
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Step 1: Prepare the Cake Bars
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
#### Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
1. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture in your bars.
2. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
#### Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
1. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients**: Gradually mix in the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; otherwise, the bars may become tough.
2. **Fold in Pecans**: Gently fold in the chopped pecans so they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
#### Step 4: Bake and Cool
1. **Bake Bars**: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. **Cool Completely**: Allow the cake bars to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting them into squares.
#### Step 5: Topping (Optional)
1. **Prepare Topping**: While the bars are cooling, melt butter and mix in powdered sugar until smooth.
2. **Apply Topping**: Once cooled, spread the melted butter and sugar mixture over the top of the cake bars for added flavor and texture.
### Tips for Perfect Carolina Butter Pecan Cake Bars
- Use high-quality ingredients like real vanilla extract to enhance the flavors.
- Toasting pecans can deepen their aroma and make them more enjoyable in every bite.
- Letting the cake bars cool completely ensures they are easier to cut and less likely to crumble.
### Conclusion
These Carolina Butter Pecan Cake Bars not only look impressive but also taste outstanding. Perfect for any time of year, this dessert is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy crafting these delightful treats with your loved ones!