Decadent Turtle Bars Recipe

Introduction

Decadent Turtle Bars are a luscious treat combining a buttery crust, gooey caramel and toasted pecans, topped with rich melted chocolate. Perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth, these bars bring classic flavors in an easy-to-make dessert.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cold butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (can be substituted with gluten-free flour)
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (consider dairy-free options for a vegan twist)
• 1 cup toasted pecans
• 1 cup chocolate chips (dark chocolate can deepen flavor)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and all-purpose flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into a greased baking pan.
2. Step 2: Bake the crust at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, add the sweetened condensed milk and toasted pecans. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thick and gooey, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Pour the caramel pecan mixture evenly over the baked crust.
5. Step 5: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler until soft and pourable. Add vanilla extract and stir to combine.
6. Step 6: Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer and smooth with a spatula for an even topping.
7. Step 7: Allow the pan to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing into squares. This ensures clean cuts and easier serving.

Tips & Variations

• Toast pecans lightly before adding to enhance their flavor and crunch.
• Use vegan butter and dairy-free sweetened condensed milk to make this dessert vegan-friendly.
• Swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or milk chocolate to change up the flavor profile.
• Chill the bars in the refrigerator for firmer slicing if preferred.

Storage

Store the turtle bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, let them come to room temperature or warm gently for a few seconds in the microwave for a soft, melty texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes if pecans are not available or preferred.

How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Cook the caramel mixture over medium heat and stir continuously to avoid scorching. Remove from heat as soon as it thickens and becomes gooey.

Decadent Turtle Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 102 reviews

Decadent Turtle Bars are a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a buttery crumbly crust topped with a gooey caramel and toasted pecan layer, all crowned with a smooth dark chocolate topping. Perfect for anyone who loves the classic turtle flavor combination in a convenient bar form.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 16 bars 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Crust

• 1 cup cold butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (can be substituted with gluten-free flour)

For the Caramel Layer

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk (consider dairy-free options for a vegan twist)
• 1 cup pecans, toasted

For the Topping

• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and all-purpose flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture into a greased baking pan and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until it turns lightly golden.
2. Make the Caramel Pecan Layer: In a medium saucepan, add the sweetened condensed milk and the chopped pecans. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes gooey, about 5-7 minutes. Pour this caramel blend over the baked crust, spreading evenly.
3. Add the Chocolate Topping: Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler until soft and pourable. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, smoothing it out with a spatula for an even finish.
4. Cool Completely: Allow the entire pan to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares. This helps achieve clean slices and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Use cold butter in the crust for a crumbly texture.
• To enhance flavor, toast pecans before adding to the caramel.
• For a vegan version, substitute dairy-free condensed milk and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
• Ensure the caramel is thick enough before pouring to avoid runny bars.
• Allow bars to cool completely before slicing for clean cuts.

Keywords: Turtle Bars, caramel bars, pecan dessert, chocolate bars, caramel pecan bars, dessert bars