Southern Comfort Pecan Cake Bars

This Southern Comfort Bourbon Pecan Chaos Cake Bars recipe is my go-to when I want to wow a crowd with something decadent and unforgettable. These cake bars have a buttery base layered with nutty pecans, melty chocolate, and a caramel laced with a splash of bourbon for that extra Southern flair. The recipe comes together surprisingly easily but tastes like a treat from a bakery in Charleston.

I first made these for a holiday cookie swap and friends have begged for the recipe ever since. They are just the right mix of rich and familiar with a grown-up twist.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: Softens the bar and brings a rich taste Use high-fat European-style butter if available for a richer flavor
• Granulated sugar: Gives structure and a sweet crumb Choose fine-grain for best blending
• Eggs: Bind the mixture and help lift the base Use large eggs at room temperature to blend easier
• Pure vanilla extract: Deepens the cake and caramel flavor Try to use real vanilla for a luscious aromatic scent
• All-purpose flour: Classic baking flour for a soft base Measure accurately and sift for a tender result
• Baking powder: Adds a gentle rise so bars are not dense Use fresh baking powder for reliable lift
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and sharpens other flavors Use sea salt for a clean flavor
• Light brown sugar: Brings caramel notes and depth to the pecan layer Pack it tightly for accurate measuring
• Southern Comfort or bourbon: Offers a true Southern taste and complexity A smooth bourbon pairs wonderfully if you prefer it
• Heavy cream: Makes the caramel silky and prevents it from turning grainy Use full-fat cream for luxurious texture
• Pecan halves: The star of the show for crunch and flavor Look for plump, fresh pecans without bitterness
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Lends chocolate puddles among the nuts Choose high-quality chips for the best melting

Instructions

Preheat and Prep:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Line a nine by thirteen inch baking pan with parchment paper making sure the paper hangs over the edges to help you lift the bars out later

Cream the Butter and Sugar:

Use an electric mixer to blend the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step usually takes two to three minutes and is essential for a tender base

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Add the eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition. Scoop in the pure vanilla extract and mix until everything is combined

Combine Dry Ingredients:

In another bowl whisk together your flour baking powder and salt until evenly blended. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the butter mixture mixing on low until just combined and no flour streaks remain

Form the Cake Base:

Spoon the thick batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula or your hands to press it evenly into all corners making a uniform layer that will hold the caramel

Make the Bourbon Pecan Caramel:

Put the brown sugar and butter into a medium saucepan and melt over medium heat. Stir constantly and watch as it comes together in a bubbling caramel after about three minutes. Take the pan off the heat then carefully stir in the Southern Comfort and heavy cream until smooth and glossy

Add Pecans and Chocolate:

Fold in the chopped pecan halves and chocolate chips making sure they are evenly coated with caramel

Layer and Spread:

Gently pour and spread the bourbon pecan caramel mixture over your cake base in the baking pan making sure to distribute nuts and chips evenly

Bake to Perfection:

Place the pan in the oven and bake for thirty to thirty five minutes. The edges should be golden and set but the center just barely jiggles when moved. This slight wiggle means the bars will set into their perfect gooey texture as they cool

Cool and Slice:

Let the bars cool completely in their pan. Once fully cooled use the parchment paper overhang to lift them out. Use a sharp knife to cut into sixteen bars for clean edges and neat servings

Save

You can serve them warm or chilled and they pair exceptionally well with coffee or bourbon. The pecan caramel is my absolute favorite part I love how the Southern Comfort soaks into the nuts and every bite tastes like the best part of pecan pie My grandma used to sneak an extra handful of chocolate chips into hers signifying the chocolate pockets as little bits of mischief

Storage Tips

Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days If you want to keep them longer freeze them flat in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag where they will keep for up to two months Thaw at room temperature before serving for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Walnuts make a solid stand-in if you are out of pecans or want a different flavor For a cozy no-alcohol version simply swap out the bourbon for extra vanilla and use a splash of apple cider in the caramel If you have only salted butter on hand reduce the added salt by a pinch

Serving Suggestions

Pile these bars on a platter for a potluck or family gathering They make a festive dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even a dollop of whipped cream If you are feeling fancy drizzle with extra caramel or garnish with a pecan half on top of each bar

Cultural Notes

These bars are inspired by the classic flavors of the American South where bourbon pecan pies are legends at every holiday table The Southern Comfort twist gives a sweeter slightly citrus aroma in the caramel I always associate the aroma of bubbling sugar and spirits with cozy autumn weekends and family celebrations

Seasonal Adaptations

In fall try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the pecan mixture For a springtime twist stir in dried cherries or cranberries Summer versions are lovely with a little orange zest blended into the caramel These bars are easily adjustable for whatever is in your pantry

Success Stories

Friends have taken these bars to everything from tailgates to baby showers and always come home with rave reviews One cousin even substituted gluten free flour for someone with celiac and they still disappeared within minutes The recipe has become a bridge for both traditional and modern Southern sweets

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can make these bars a couple weeks in advance Slice the cooled bars and freeze them with parchment between layers Seal in a container and they will be ready at a moment's notice for parties or last minute guests They actually taste even better after a few days in the freezer since the flavors have more time to mingle

Save

Very kid friendly when made without bourbon. Pairs well with cold milk or hot coffee. Leftovers make a decadent addition to ice cream sundaes.

Recipe FAQ

→ Can the bourbon be omitted?

Yes, simply leave out the bourbon and add a splash of extra vanilla to the caramel layer for a nonalcoholic alternative.

→ Are other nuts suitable in place of pecans?

Walnuts or hazelnuts work well if you prefer, though pecans best complement the Southern flavors.

→ How do you achieve clean cuts with cake bars?

Allow the bars to cool fully in the pan, then use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices for neat edges.

→ What pairs well with these cake bars?

They are delicious with strong coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to highlight their rich flavors.

→ How should these bars be stored?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to retain freshness and texture.