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Turtle Bars

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Turtle Bars are a rich, decadent treat with a buttery shortbread crust, gooey caramel filling, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of chocolate. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or as an indulgent dessert any time!

Ingredients

Scale

Makes about 16-20 bars:

  • For the crust:
    • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
    • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • For the caramel layer:
    • 1 cup (200 g) packed light brown sugar
    • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter
    • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
    • 1 1/2 cups (150 g) chopped pecans
  • For the chocolate topping:
    • 1 cup (180 g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
    • 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (optional, for easier drizzling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
    • In a mixing bowl, combine the butter, flour, and sugar. Mix until crumbly and well combined.
    • Press the crust mixture evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  2. Make the caramel layer:
    • In a saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to boil. Boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.
    • Stir in the chopped pecans.
  3. Assemble the bars:
    • Pour the caramel-pecan mixture evenly over the baked crust, spreading gently to cover the entire surface.
    • Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
  4. Add the chocolate topping:
    • Melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Stir in the vegetable oil if using for easier drizzling.
    • Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cooled caramel layer in a zigzag pattern.
  5. Cut and serve:
    • Allow the bars to set completely at room temperature or chill them in the refrigerator for quicker setting. Once firm, cut into bars and serve.

Notes

  • Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate based on your preference.
  • For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate drizzle.
  • Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.