These Turtle Bars combine layers of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, and melted chocolate, topped with crunchy walnuts for the ultimate sweet treat. Perfect for holidays or any special occasion, these bars are a decadent dessert sure to impress!
Ingredients:
Shortbread Base:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ⅔ cup unsalted butter, softened
Caramel Layer:
- ⅔ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup light brown sugar
Toppings:
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 2 cups milk chocolate chips
Directions:
Step 1: Prepare the Shortbread Base
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour and granulated sugar.
- Add the softened butter and use a fork to combine until the mixture reaches a crumbly, sand-like consistency.
- Press this mixture firmly into the lined baking pan to create an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the shortbread base is lightly golden.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously.
- Once the mixture begins to bubble, let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it thickens into a caramel consistency.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the hot caramel evenly over the baked shortbread base, using a spatula to spread it if needed.
- Sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the caramel layer, pressing them lightly into the caramel.
- Bake for an additional 13-15 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbling.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate Topping
- Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the hot caramel and walnut layer.
- Allow the chocolate chips to sit for about 3 minutes to soften, then use a palette knife to spread the melted chocolate smoothly across the top. You can create decorative swirls if desired.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the Turtle Bars cool completely. For best results, refrigerate for 1 hour to set the layers.
- Use the parchment paper to lift the dessert out of the pan, then slice into squares.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: These bars are rich and decadent, so cut them into small squares for the perfect bite-sized treat.
- 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.
- Freezing: Wrap each square in parchment paper and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Nut Options: Walnuts add crunch, but pecans are a classic choice for turtle desserts. Feel free to substitute based on preference.
- Chocolate Options: Milk chocolate chips add sweetness, but for a richer flavor, use semisweet or dark chocolate chips.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
For best results, make the caramel from scratch to ensure it sets properly. Store-bought caramel sauce can sometimes be too thin. - What if I don’t have a palette knife for the chocolate?
You can use the back of a spoon or a butter knife to spread the melted chocolate. - Can I make these bars gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the shortbread base to make these bars gluten-free. - Can I add sea salt to these bars?
Absolutely! A sprinkle of sea salt over the chocolate layer adds a wonderful balance to the sweetness. - How do I prevent the caramel from getting too hard?
Be sure to cook the caramel just until thickened, around 1-2 minutes after it begins to bubble, for a soft and chewy texture.
These Turtle Bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that come together in every bite. Enjoy this rich, chocolatey treat any time you’re in the mood for something truly indulgent!