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Easy Turtle Bars Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 58 reviews

These Easy Turtle Bars combine a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich, gooey caramel and pecan topping, finished with melted milk chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt. The blend of sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate creates a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust

  • 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 cup pecan halves

For the Caramel Layer

  • 2/3 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

For the Topping

  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips
  • Extra chopped pecans (optional)
  • Sea salt flakes (to taste)
  • Drizzled caramel sauce (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving the paper hanging over the edges to allow easy removal of the bars later.
  2. Make the Crust: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and brown sugar. Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut in the cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse, sandy crumbs. Be sure to work quickly to keep the butter cold.
  3. Press the Crust: Evenly press the crumb mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan, using the back of a spoon or your fingers to create a compact and level crust layer.
  4. Add Pecans: Sprinkle the pecan halves evenly over the crust to form a nutty base layer for the caramel topping.
  5. Prepare Caramel: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter and brown sugar. Stir constantly as the mixture heats until it bubbles and begins to change color.
  6. Cook Caramel: Continue stirring and cook for exactly one minute after the mixture starts boiling to ensure proper caramel consistency without burning.
  7. Pour Caramel Layer: Carefully pour the hot caramel evenly over the pecans and crust. Use a spatula if needed to ensure full coverage.
  8. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The topping should become bubbly and golden-brown when done.
  9. Add Chocolate Chips: Immediately after removing the bars from the oven, sprinkle the milk chocolate chips evenly over the hot bars. Allow them to sit a few minutes until softened.
  10. Spread Melted Chocolate: Once softened, use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the melted chocolate into an even layer. The residual heat will help create a smooth, glossy chocolate layer.

Notes

  • For easier removal, ensure the parchment paper hangs over the edges and use it to lift the bars out of the pan.
  • Add extra chopped pecans on top of the melted chocolate for added crunch and presentation, if desired.
  • Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the cooled bars for a richer look and taste.
  • Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for extended freshness.
  • Allow bars to cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.

Keywords: turtle bars, caramel bars, pecan bars, chocolate bars, easy dessert, baked bars

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