Southern Praline Bars
Sweet and crunchy Southern Praline Bars feature a rich brown sugar base topped with chopped pecans and a luscious praline frosting. Perfect for gatherings or as a decadent treat, these bars combine classic Southern flavors with a chewy, crispy texture that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening in a 2-quart saucepan.
- Add the remaining ingredients, except frosting, and mix well.
- Spread the mixture in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Cool slightly in the pan on a rack.
- Spread with Praline Frosting.
- When cool, cut into bars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening. If you're out of brown sugar, you can substitute with a mix of white sugar and molasses. Make sure to sift your flour to ensure the bars have a light texture. For an extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the batter. These bars are best enjoyed fresh but can also be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Southern Praline Bars as a delightful dessert at gatherings or alongside your morning coffee. They pair beautifully with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For an added touch, consider serving them with a side of Cooked Pineapple Sandwich Spread, which complements the sweetness perfectly. These bars are sure to be a hit at any event.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Southern Praline Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, simply place a bar in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm, or enjoy them cold for a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Praline Bars contains roughly 135 calories, with 1g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 4g 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 a different type of nut in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chopped walnuts or almonds for the pecans if desired. Just keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but both options will still provide a nice crunch. Experimenting with different nuts can lead to unique variations of this classic dessert.
What can I do if I don't have praline frosting?
If you don't have praline frosting on hand, you can create a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk and vanilla extract until you reach a pourable consistency. Alternatively, a chocolate ganache or cream cheese frosting can also be a delicious topping for these bars.
How can I tell when the bars are done baking?
The Southern Praline Bars are done when the edges start to pull away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overbaking.
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).