### Detailed Steps to Make Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
#### Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1 large egg, beaten (optional)
- Filling:
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup dark brown sugar
- ⅓ cup chopped pecans
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
#### Equipment Needed:
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutter (optional)
- Knife and cutting board
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour with ⅓ cup of granulated sugar.
- Add 6 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, and mix using your fingers or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- If desired, add an egg to bind the mixture slightly. Mix gently until just combined.
2. **Press the Crust:**
- Press the dough into a 9-inch square baking dish, making sure it's evenly spread and pressed down firmly along the bottom and sides.
- Chill the crust in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up before adding the filling.
3. **Prepare the Filling:**
- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 cup of heavy cream over low heat until warm but not boiling.
- Add 3/4 cup of dark brown sugar and 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir gently until fully melted and combined.
4. **Blend in the Remaining Ingredients:**
- Remove from heat and stir in ⅓ cup of chopped pecans, 3 tablespoons of softened unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Allow the mixture to cool slightly before pouring it over the chilled crust.
5. **Bake the Bars:**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour the filling into the prepared crust and smooth out evenly with a knife or offset spatula.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
6. **Cool and Cut:**
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on a wire rack.
- Once cooled, cut into bars using a knife or cookie cutter if desired.
7. **Serve and Enjoy!**
- Store any leftover chocolate pecan pie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
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By following these steps, you’ll create delicious chocolate pecan pie bars that are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying crunch of these delectable treats!