I don't know why these squares are named Dixie Bars. I did some cursory investigation on the Internet but didn't really find much about their history. All I could glean was that this is a Southern American treat and that's about it. I have never been to the Deep South so I can't vouch for their authenticity but these bars sure are good.First, you start with shortbread-like crust. Do not brown it a lot otherwise it will become as hard as rock. Mine was gently browned but could easily have been taken out five minutes earlier. This is all the baking that's required - the rest is just chilling.
The filling is the real show stopper of this bar. After cooking down condensed milk you get a toffee coloured mixture that is then mixed with pecans and poured on top. I always think the mixture looks caramel coloured in the pot but when I spread it on the base, I realize it's not that dark after all. You have to remember to watch it while stirring - it will burn if you forget it. After chilling, you top with melted chocolate and wait for it to set before digging in.
These bars remind me of Twix Bars, just with nuts. I really enjoy the chewy centre and the three components go together very well. They're rich and indulgent and perfect for those with a real sweet tooth.
Recipe: Dixie Bars
I'm guessing they're called dixie bars because of the praline like center. I'm from the south and have never heard of them, but they sure do look good. I may just have to try making those.
ReplyDeletethose look incredible!
ReplyDeleteThis reminds me of nothing as much as alfajores, the South American pastry made of shortbread biscuits and dulce de leche, which is caramelized condensed milk.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a delicious variation!
These look so yummy! I'm from Texas and I've never heard of these. Will definitely have to try.
ReplyDeleteThese sound amazing!!
ReplyDeleteLove your blog -- have enjoyed it for years!
ReplyDeleteDixie is actually short for the part of the US south of the Mason-Dixon line. Surprisingly, the Mason-Dixon line divides Pennsylvania from West Virgina and Maryland, along with dividing Delaware from Maryland. There's a big push to recover the original stones that marked the line because people have been stealing them for years.
That's your US history lesson for today. ;D
Hi Deb - Thanks for the info and for reading! Stealing stones...just like the Acropolis. :)
ReplyDeleteTo Everyone - Thanks for your comments. I really appreciate them all.
I knew these ones under the name of "Millionaire's shortbread", except there's no pecans in millionaire's shortbread. I should really try this version, it looks even more delicious :)
ReplyDeleteOh my, those look delicious. I've made something similar before but with peanuts instead of pecans, it sort of tasted like a snickers bar. I'll have to give the pecans a try sometime soon!
ReplyDeleteanother great recipe... :)
ReplyDeleteThese look delicious. I know them as Millionaires Shortbread. I love the addition of the nuts.
ReplyDeleteThese look great! Posted them on Tastespotting for all to share.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, beautiful is all I can say!
ReplyDeleteWow, those look great! I can't wait to try these. Well done!
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ReplyDelete