Easy Delicious Pecan Pie Bark

This Pecan Pie Bark is one of my favorite dessert recipes to make. Candied pecans layered on top of graham crackers for a delicious sweet pecan pie-inspired dessert.

If there’s one dessert that can instantly make me feel all warm and cozy inside, it’s pecan pie. The caramelized pecans, the sweet buttery filling, the crunch, it’s holiday magic in every bite. But let’s be honest, as much as I love a traditional pecan pie, sometimes you just want all those flavors without having to go through the whole process of making pie crust, chilling dough, and baking for an hour.

That’s where this pecan pie bark comes in. Think of it like the easier, faster, and more snackable cousin to pecan pie. Instead of a slice, you get crispy graham crackers as the base, topped with a luscious, caramel-like pecan mixture that bakes up into a sweet, crunchy bark. It’s perfect for gifting, perfect for holiday platters, and most importantly, perfect for grabbing straight from the fridge when you need “just one more piece.”

The best part? You can make the entire thing in under 30 minutes, with no rolling, no special equipment, and no stress. If you can boil sugar and layer graham crackers, you can make this.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Bark

Before we get into the recipe, here’s why I think this pecan pie bark is about to become your new holiday tradition:

• Easy to make – No pie crust drama, no mixer, no chilling. Just layer, pour, and bake.

• Perfectly sweet + salty – The combination of caramelized pecans, coconut sugar, and graham crackers is balanced with just enough salt to keep you coming back for more.

• Naturally gluten-free friendly – Just use gluten-free graham crackers and you’re set.

• Make-ahead magic – This bark stores beautifully, so you can make it days in advance for parties or gifts.

• Endlessly giftable – Wrap in parchment, tie with twine, and boom—instant holiday hostess gift.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need for this pecan pie bark recipe:

• Avocado oil – I love using avocado oil here for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, but you can also use melted butter or coconut oil.
• Maple syrup – Adds natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor that pairs perfectly with pecans.
• Coconut sugar – Gives that rich, caramel flavor without refined sugar. You can use brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and depth.
• Pecan pieces – You can use halves or pieces, but I love the rustic look of chopped pecans in bark.
• Graham crackers – gluten-free if needed. These make up the crunchy base of the bark.

How to Make Pecan Pie Bark

Step 1: Preheat and prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Lay your graham crackers down in a single layer so they cover the whole sheet—no gaps! If needed, break a few crackers to fit.

Step 2: Make the pecan filling
In a small saucepan, combine the avocado oil, coconut sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla. Warm over medium heat until the mixture starts boiling.

Once boiling, stir constantly and let it bubble for 1 minute. Then reduce to a simmer and cook for another 3–5 minutes, still stirring often, until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Add the pecans
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the pecan pieces until they’re fully coated in the caramel mixture.

Step 4: Assemble
Pour the pecan mixture evenly over the graham crackers, spreading it out so every cracker gets covered.

Step 5: Bake
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. The caramel will be bubbling and the pecans will be toasted to perfection.

Step 6: Cool and break
Let the bark cool completely, this is key for getting that satisfying “snap” when you break it apart. Once cool, use your hands to break it into pieces.

Tips for the Best Pecan Pie Bark

• Use parchment paper – This makes clean-up so much easier and prevents sticking.

• Don’t skip the simmer – The simmering time helps the caramel thicken so it sets into a crunchy bark instead of staying too soft.

• Watch the oven closely – The sugar can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it in those last couple minutes.

• Cool completely before breaking – If you try to break it while warm, you’ll end up with more of a gooey mess (still delicious, but not bark!).

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this pecan pie bark is how customizable it is:

• Nut swap – Try walnuts, almonds, or even a mix of nuts.

• Add chocolate – Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled bark for a turtle candy vibe.

• Go dairy-free – This recipe is already dairy-free as written, but if you want a buttery flavor, use vegan butter.

• Extra spice – Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the caramel for a cozy twist.

Storing and Gifting

This bark will stay fresh for up to 1 week in an airtight container at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it to keep it extra crisp or freezer for 2 months.

For gifting, wrap pieces in parchment or wax paper, tie with kitchen twine, and pop into a festive tin or box. It’s a crowd-pleaser for teachers, neighbors, and anyone who appreciates a homemade treat.

Why This Is Better Than Store-Bought

Yes, you can find bark-like snacks at the store, but they’re never as fresh, flavorful, or customizable as homemade. Plus, most store-bought versions are loaded with preservatives and corn syrup. This homemade pecan pie bark is made with simple, wholesome ingredients, and you can adjust the sweetness to your taste.

Make It a Holiday Dessert Board

If you’re entertaining, this bark looks gorgeous as part of a dessert board. Pair it with:

• Chocolate-dipped pretzels

• Fresh berries

• Your favorite cookies

• Caramel popcorn

• A few festive chocolates

The bark adds that crunchy, nutty element that ties everything together.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make pecan pie bark without graham crackers?
  Yes! You can use saltine crackers for a saltier base or even gluten-free digestive biscuits for a more biscuit-like texture.
• How do I know when the caramel is ready?
  The mixture should thicken slightly and coat the back of a spoon. If you’re unsure, err on the side of slightly undercooked, it will still set in the oven.
• Can I freeze pecan pie bark?
  Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.

Whether you’re making this for a cookie swap, holiday party, or just to have in the kitchen for afternoon coffee breaks, pecan pie bark is one of those recipes that’s almost too easy for how impressive it tastes. It’s got that perfect balance of crispy, nutty, sweet, and salty, and every bite feels like a little piece of pecan pie heaven, without the work of an actual pie.

So grab your pecans, line your pan with crackers, and get ready to make a dessert that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Just be prepared to “accidentally” break a few extra pieces for quality control… purely for research purposes, of course.