Chocolate Toffee Pecan Bread Pudding Bars Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that’s rich, buttery, and loaded with irresistible crunch, you’ll absolutely love my Chocolate Toffee Pecan Bread Pudding Bars Recipe. This isn’t your average bread pudding – it’s a bar that’s packed with gooey chocolate toffee bits and toasted pecans snuggled into a tender, buttery crust. I promise, once you make these, they’ll disappear faster than you expect, and everyone will be asking for the recipe. Stick with me, and I’ll share all my tips so these come out perfect every time!

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work together beautifully to give you a buttery crust, a custardy filling, and satisfyingly crunchy toffee and pecan bits. I like to use good quality pecans for the best flavor. Also, don’t skip the sweetened condensed milk — it’s the secret to that rich, smooth texture everyone raves about.

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base crust; keep it fresh for the lightest texture.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Sweet and fine, perfect for blending into the crust.
• Butter: Use softened unsalted butter to get that crumbly, buttery crust everyone loves.
• Sweetened condensed milk: Provides creaminess and sweetness for the filling without any fuss.
• Egg: Helps bind the filling and gives it that custard-like consistency.
• Vanilla extract: Adds aroma and depth of flavor—don’t skip it!
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance the flavors and balance sweetness.
• Milk chocolate English toffee bits: These crunchy, buttery morsels melt slightly and add amazing texture and richness.
• Chopped pecans: Toasted pecans bring a warm, nutty crunch that pairs perfectly with the toffee.

Variations

I love to play around with this Chocolate Toffee Pecan Bread Pudding Bars Recipe depending on the occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite nuts or swapping chocolate types—for example, dark chocolate chunks add a nice bittersweet balance.

• Swap nuts: I sometimes use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate variations: Try white chocolate or dark chocolate if you’re feeling adventurous—each gives a totally different flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust to make this treat friendly for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Add spices: Cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg in the custard mixture can add a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with the toffee and nuts.

How to Make Chocolate Toffee Pecan Bread Pudding Bars Recipe

Step 1: Make the Buttery Crust

Start by combining the all-purpose flour with confectioners’ sugar in a large bowl. Then, cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. I like to use my fingertips or a pastry cutter here. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a greased 13×9-inch baking dish to create an even layer—this crust is the foundation, so don’t skimp on pressing it down well. Bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until it’s just slightly golden. This gets the crust started and prevents sogginess later.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Filling

While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. This simple custard mixture is the secret to making these bars wonderfully creamy inside without being watery. Once combined, gently fold in the milk chocolate toffee bits and chopped pecans—this adds that signature crunch and chocolatey goodness you’ll love.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Pour the filling evenly over the hot crust, then return the pan to the oven. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the filling feels set around the edges but still a little soft in the middle. Don’t overbake because you want the bars to stay moist and tender inside. Once done, take it out and let the bars cool completely.

Step 4: Chill and Cut

Once cooled, cover and chill the whole pan in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. The chilling step is essential because it helps the custard firm up, making the bars easier to cut and eat. After chilling, cut into bars and serve. Trust me when I say these bars taste better the next day once all the flavors have melded together!

How to Serve Chocolate Toffee Pecan Bread Pudding Bars Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple by dusting the bars lightly with powdered sugar or drizzling a bit of melted chocolate on top for extra elegance. Sometimes I sprinkle a few whole pecans on the bars before serving for a rustic look and added crunch. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes the bars feel like a special treat.

Side Dishes

These bars rave-worthy enough to stand alone, but if you want to serve a complete dessert plate, pair them with fresh berries or a tangy citrus salad to cut through the sweetness. A hot cup of coffee or chai tea also pairs wonderfully and complements the toffee’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I like to serve these bars on a wooden board surrounded by pecan halves and some chocolate shards for a decorative display. You can also cut them into mini squares and place them in cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go bites at potlucks or showers. Adding a small sprinkle of sea salt flakes right before serving kicks the flavor up a notch and looks impressive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They usually last up to 5 days, though in my house, they rarely last that long! Keeping them chilled is key to maintaining their perfect texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these bars a few times with great results. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. The texture stays pretty close to fresh — such a lifesaver for busy weeks.

Reheating

The best way to reheat these bars is to warm them briefly in the microwave—about 15 to 20 seconds—just enough to soften the chocolate and toffee slightly but not melt it completely. I like to add a small scoop of ice cream on top after warming for an indulgent treat.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Chocolate Toffee Pecan Bread Pudding Bars Recipe has become a go-to in my house whenever I want a dessert that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser but simple to whip up. The combination of buttery crust, sweet creamy filling, crunchy toffee, and toasted pecans just can’t be beat. You’ll love how versatile it is, too—it’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or a cozy weekend treat. Give it a try and watch your friends and family fall in love with it just like mine did!

Print