Carolina Chewy'S
Chewy pecan bars with a rich, buttery flavor and a hint of sweetness, perfect for satisfying dessert cravings or sharing at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla together.
- Blend in self-rising flour.
- Add chopped pecans to the batter.
- Spoon the batter into a well-greased, lightly floured 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Bake at 300°F for 45 minutes, ensuring not to overbake.
- Let cool slightly, then cut into squares.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
- Keep the bars covered well to prevent them from becoming hard.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by adding 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt to each cup of all-purpose flour. Chopped walnuts can be used instead of pecans for a different nutty taste.
Serving Suggestions
These chewy bars are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a dusting of powdered sugar. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon treat. For a more indulgent dessert, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of Mocha Cheesecake.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also wrap them in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. If you want to freeze them, slice them into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolina Chewy'S contains roughly 440 calories, with 5g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is a good source of iron (12% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
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?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe. However, the texture and flavor may vary slightly. Make sure to use a stick margarine for the best results, as tub margarine has more water content and may affect the consistency of the batter.
What can I use instead of eggs?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, you can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until gelatinous) for each egg in the recipe. This will maintain the moisture and binding properties needed in the bars.
How do I know when the bars are done baking?
To check if the bars are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Be careful not to overbake, as this can lead to dry bars. They should be slightly firm to the touch but still soft in the center.
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).