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Decadent Turtle Bars: Easy Treat for Every Celebration Recipe

Decadent Turtle Bars: Easy Treat for Every Celebration Recipe

4.8 from 31 reviews

Decadent Turtle Bars are a rich, indulgent treat perfect for any celebration. Featuring a buttery crumbly crust, gooey caramel pecan layer, and a luscious chocolate topping, these bars combine classic flavors into an easy-to-make dessert that will impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 cup cold butter
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)

Caramel Pecan Layer

  • 1 can sweetened condensed milk (can use dairy-free for vegan)
  • 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 cup chocolate chips (dark chocolate recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the cold butter (melted slightly to mix), brown sugar, and all-purpose flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into a greased baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and set.
  2. Make the Caramel Pecan Layer: In a medium saucepan, pour in the sweetened condensed milk and add the chopped toasted pecans. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent burning, until the mixture thickens and becomes gooey, about 5-7 minutes. Immediately pour this caramel blend over the baked crust and spread evenly using a spatula.
  3. Add the Chocolate Topping: Melt the chocolate chips gently in the microwave in short bursts or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth and pourable. Add the vanilla extract and mix. Pour the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula for a clean finish.
  4. Cool Completely: Allow the assembled pan to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This cooling step helps the layers set properly, making it easier to cut clean squares and serve without mess.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute sweetened condensed milk with a vegan condensed milk alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.
  • To enhance pecan flavor, toast them lightly in a dry skillet before chopping.
  • Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or semi-sweet for a balanced sweetness.
  • Refrigerate bars after cooling to firm up further, especially in warm climates.
  • Cut bars with a hot knife for cleaner slices by running the knife under hot water and wiping dry before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: turtle bars, pecan caramel bars, chocolate bars, easy dessert, celebration treat, homemade bars