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Easy Turtle Bars

Easy Turtle Bars
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Easy Turtle Bars are a decadent layered dessert combining a buttery crust, creamy caramel sauce, melted semi-sweet chocolate, and toasted pecans for a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Perfect for any occasion, these bars are simple to make, customizable, and taste even better after chilling.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (220g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour

For the Caramel Layer

  • 14 caramel squares or soft caramel candies (about 7 oz / 200g)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) evaporated milk

For the Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups (270g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1 cup (100g) chopped pecans, toasted
  • Pinch of salt (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough comes together completely. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the pan to form a firm base. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the crust is lightly golden. Remove from oven.
  2. Make the caramel layer: While the crust is baking, place the caramel squares and evaporated milk into a small saucepan. Melt over low heat, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overheat or burn the caramel.
  3. Add the caramel and nuts: Pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the hot baked crust. Immediately sprinkle the toasted chopped pecans across the caramel layer, gently pressing them to stick but keeping their crunch intact.
  4. Melt the chocolate layer: Using a microwave or stovetop double boiler, gently melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips until smooth. Pour or spread the melted chocolate evenly over the caramel and nuts, covering the entire surface.
  5. Chill and cut: Place the baking pan into the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to firm up properly. Once chilled, use a sharp knife to cut into bars or squares. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter to ensure the crust mixes evenly and bakes tender.
  • Toast the pecans beforehand to enhance their flavor and add extra crunch.
  • Melt caramel gently over low heat to prevent burning or grainy texture.
  • Press crust firmly into the pan to help bars hold together when cut.
  • Chill bars well before cutting to avoid sticky, messy slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turtle bars, caramel chocolate bars, easy dessert, layered bars, pecan bars, homemade treats, caramel bars

Find it online: https://eazyummy.com/easy-turtle-bars/