When I was a kid, the family Sunday drive was a big thing, and for many, it was an all-day affair. Back then, there weren't convenience stores on every corner, nor were there gas stations everywhere. So, if a kid had to "go," we used the family porta-potty; the pee can was pressed into service.
Usually, it was an old coffee can with a lid. But some people used old mason jars. The family's pee can be emptied, washed, and reused on the next family excursion. So for those of you who call the tasty nut of the south a PEECAN, remember below is a pee can:
On the other hand, those of us who know better know that the oblong, woodsy-covered nut with tender but flavorful meat inside is called a PE' CAHN. Short E.
So now that we have that issue settled, let's get down into some serious pecan bars. This recipe has many variations. Some good. Some are not so good. Most of them are far too gooey for my taste. This one, though, turned into something anyone can enjoy without losing the cap on their tooth. Begin by toasting your nut meats at 350 for 10 minutes. Watch them to make sure they don't burn! If your nuts are frozen, either put on long johns or take them out of the freezer a day or two before roasting.
FOR THE CRUST
- 4 cups pecans, toasted and cooled
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 6 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp fine salt
- 8 tbsp unsalted, melted and cooled butter
Mix together into a shortbread-like consistency and press into an 8 x 8" baking pan fitted with a baking parchment sling.
FOR THE TOPPING
- 1/2 cup corn syrup (use the dark stuff!)
- 3/4 cups brown sugar (you can use either light or dark, depending on your taste)
- 7 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 4 eggs
- Mix all of the above together.
- Mix in the nuts and spread over the crust
- Cook on the LOWEST rack at 350 for 25 minutes.
- Cool for 1 1/2 hours
- Sprinkle the top with finishing salt flakes before completely cooling.
- Once room temperature, remove via the sling and trim off the edges, and cut into squares.
If you plan to go 100% decadent, serve it topped with caramel or butter pecan ice cream!