Chocolate-Caramel Pecan Squares

MAKES: 48 bars

COOK TIME: 10 Min

In the South, they have a knack for taking something great and making it taste even better! Chocolate-Caramel Pecan Squares show they do it with their native favorite: pecans.

What You'll Need

12 double graham crackers
2 (7-ounce) packages chocolate-covered caramel candies (about 50 pieces)
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans, lightly toasted

What to Do

Completely cover the bottom of a 10- x 15-inch rimmed baking sheet with graham crackers; set aside.
In a heavy saucepan, heat and stir candies and cream over low heat, until candies melt. Spread chocolate mixture over graham crackers; quickly sprinkle with nuts, gently pressing them into chocolate.
Cool 10 to 15 minutes then cut into bars or break into chunks like brittle. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container until ready to serve.

Notes

If you don't buy the pecans already toasted, it's easy to do it yourself: Spread out the pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees F. just until lightly browned. (Keep an eye on them, 'cause it doesn't take too long!)
You can use walnuts or peanuts...whatever your gang likes. And if you use peanuts, how about throwing on a few peanut butter morsels with the nuts?
You can also prepare this in the microwave by placing the candies and cream in a glass bowl, and microwaving it at 30 percent power for 2 to 4 minutes, stirring well after each minute. When the mixture is smooth, just spread it over the crackers and continue as above.
For a different serving idea, microwave the finished bars for 5 to 10 seconds right before serving and you'll have a warm, soft treat (but don't overcook!).