Lowcountry Chewies are a sensational dessert that brings the heart of the South right into your kitchen. With their rich buttery flavor and crunchy pecans, these chewy bars are often likened to blondies but offer a unique twist that is sure to captivate your taste buds. Ideal for any gathering or simply for a delightful treat at home, these bars are incredibly simple to prepare and yield 24 irresistible pieces that everyone will adore.
The beauty of Lowcountry Chewies lies not just in their taste but in their texture. Each bite delivers a satisfying chewiness, complemented perfectly by the added crunch of pecans. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering, a holiday event, or looking for a sweet snack, these bars promise to be a crowd-pleaser. Moreover, they are a breeze to whip up, requiring less than 40 minutes from start to finish. With their straightforward ingredient list and quick prep time, you might find yourself baking them more often than you initially planned!
Why You’ll Love This Lowcountry Chewies
- Deliciously Chewy: The combination of melted butter and brown sugar creates a perfectly chewy texture that’s nostalgic and comforting.
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and no complicated steps, even novice bakers can tackle this recipe without stress.
- Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 24 bars, they are ideal for parties, picnics, or just sharing with family and friends.
- Versatile Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, you can easily whip these up on a whim!
- Rich Flavor: The buttery sweetness combined with the nutty crunch of pecans will leave everyone craving more.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start baking your Lowcountry Chewies, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your bars bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden brown edge. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by greasing it well or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.
For this recipe, you’ll need the following tools: a large mixing bowl, a whisk or hand mixer, a separate mixing bowl for the dry ingredients, a silicone spatula for folding, and, of course, measuring cups to accurately get your ingredients right. Having all your ingredients at room temperature, particularly the eggs, will help them blend more smoothly into the mixture, making for a better texture in your final product.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking your Lowcountry Chewies, allowing them to rise beautifully and achieve that sought-after soft center while ensuring that the edges become perfectly golden. Once your oven is heated, take a 9×13-inch baking pan and either grease it with butter or cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it will prevent your chewy bars from sticking, making it easier to lift them out once they are cool.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, introduce melted unsalted butter and packed light brown sugar. Using either a whisk or a hand mixer, beat these together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Once combined, add the two room-temperature eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is thoroughly mixed before adding the next. This process helps maintain the desired consistency of the batter. To finish this step, mix in the pure vanilla extract, which adds a warmth and depth of flavor to the bars.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important for evenly distributing the leavening agents throughout the batter. Once well mixed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold in the flour mixture until just combined, taking care not to over-mix, as this can result in denser bars.
Step 4: Add Pecans and Bake
Now that your batter is ready, fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with the spatula. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly, and the anticipation will build as you wait for them to cool.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven, and allow it to cool completely in the pan. This cooling period is crucial as it will help you achieve clean cuts when you eventually slice the bars into squares. After cooling, use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Enjoy these delightful Lowcountry Chewies warm or at room temperature!
Variations
- Protein: Add in a cup of mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
- Vegetables: Incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical flavor, or mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or cherries for added sweetness.
- Spices: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth, or even a little orange zest for a hint of brightness.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your butter is melted and then slightly cooled before mixing, as hot butter can cook the eggs.
- Don’t overmix the batter; folding gently keeps it light and chewy.
- The chewies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t be alarmed if they look a bit soft when you take them out of the oven.
- These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Pair with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
- Garnish with powdered sugar or a drizzle of chocolate for a fancy touch.
Tips
- For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle additional pecans on top before baking.
- If you like a bit more sweetness, consider adding an additional 1/4 cup of brown sugar to the mix.
- Check for doneness at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking. The center should still look a little soft but set.
- Feel free to double the recipe if you’re expecting plenty of guests!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 220 per bar
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 140mg
FAQs
Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even chocolate chips if you prefer a nut-free version.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How should I store the Lowcountry Chewies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them to extend freshness.
Can I freeze the Lowcountry Chewies?
Yes, they freeze well! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lowcountry Chewies are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make, making them an excellent addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply indulging yourself, these chewy bars are guaranteed to impress with their buttery flavor and crunchy pecans. Don’t hesitate to let your creativity shine by adapting the recipe to fit your taste. We’d love to hear how your Lowcountry Chewies turned out or if you tried any exciting variations! Dive into this Southern treat and share the sweetness with friends and family, and be sure to come back to this recipe with your thoughts!
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Delicious Lowcountry Chewies Recipe for Sweet Indulgence
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings 1x
Description
Lowcountry Chewies are a sensational dessert that brings the heart of the South right into your kitchen. With their rich buttery flavor and crunchy pecans, these chewy bars are often likened to blondies but offer a unique twist that is sure to captivate your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 2 cups light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for baking your Lowcountry Chewies, allowing them to rise beautifully and achieve that sought-after soft center while ensuring that the edges become perfectly golden.
- In a large mixing bowl, introduce melted unsalted butter and packed light brown sugar. Using either a whisk or a hand mixer, beat these together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Once combined, add the two room-temperature eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is thoroughly mixed before adding the next. This process helps maintain the desired consistency of the batter. To finish this step, mix in the pure vanilla extract, which adds a warmth and depth of flavor to the bars.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step is important for evenly distributing the leavening agents throughout the batter. Once well mixed, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to fold in the flour mixture until just combined, taking care not to over-mix, as this can result in denser bars.
- Now that your batter is ready, fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with the spatula. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly, and the anticipation will build as you wait for them to cool.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven, and allow it to cool completely in the pan. This cooling period is crucial as it will help you achieve clean cuts when you eventually slice the bars into squares. After cooling, use a sharp knife to cut into squares. Enjoy these delightful Lowcountry Chewies warm or at room temperature!
Notes
Ensure your butter is melted and then slightly cooled before mixing, as hot butter can cook the eggs. Don’t overmix the batter; folding gently keeps it light and chewy. The chewies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t be alarmed if they look a bit soft when you take them out of the oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 220 per bar
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Protein: 2 g