Butter Crunch Bars
Butterscotch and chocolate combine in these crunchy bars with toasted pecans, offering a rich, sweet treat perfect for sharing at gatherings or indulging anytime.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter over low heat in a 2-quart saucepan.
- Remove from heat.
- Add sugar and stir until well blended.
- Return to cook on low heat.
- Continue to stir until mixture reaches full rolling boil.
- Add water and corn syrup; mix well.
- Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until mixture reaches 390°F or soft crack stage.
- Remove from heat, stir in 3/4 cup pecans immediately.
- Pour into lightly greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan and spread with a spatula.
- Let cool, then remove from pan.
- Place on wax paper.
- Melt chocolate chips and spread over cooled mixture.
- Let stand until chocolate is set.
- Break into pieces.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure a smooth texture, make sure the butter is completely melted before adding the sugar. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute pecans with sunflower seeds or simply omit them. For a bit of flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the mixture before pouring it into the pan.
Serving Suggestions
These Butter Crunch Bars make a delightful dessert on their own, but they can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For a festive touch, consider pairing them with a cup of coffee or tea. They are a great addition to holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack during a movie night.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Butter Crunch Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. To enjoy them again, simply let them come to room temperature before serving; this will soften the chocolate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Crunch Bars contains roughly 241 calories, with 3g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 15g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can be used, it may alter the flavor and texture of the bars. Butter provides a richer taste and better consistency for this recipe, so it is recommended to stick with butter for the best results.
What should I do if my mixture doesn't reach the soft crack stage?
If your mixture isn't reaching the soft crack stage, make sure your stove is set to low heat and continue stirring consistently. You may also want to check the thermometer for accuracy, as it can affect cooking times.
Can I add other types of nuts to the recipe?
Yes, you can customize your Butter Crunch Bars by adding other nuts such as walnuts or almonds. Just keep in mind that different nuts will impart their unique flavors, which can enhance the overall taste of the bars.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).