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Turtle Bars

Turtle Bars with a Buttery Caramel Pecan Layer and Milk Chocolate Topping


  • Author: Susan
  • Total Time: 35 Minutes
  • Yield: 24 Cookies 1x

Description

Can’t resist these Turtle Bars! With layers of caramel, pecans, and chocolate, they’re perfect for the season!


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Crust
    • 1/2 cup butter
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup brown sugar
    • 1 cup pecan pieces
  • For the Caramel Layer
    • 2/3 cup butter
    • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • For the Topping
    • 1 cup milk chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Prepare the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, use a pastry blender or fork to combine 1/2 cup butter, flour, and brown sugar until crumbly. Press this mixture into an ungreased 9×13-inch pan and sprinkle pecan pieces evenly over the top.
  • Make the Caramel Layer: In a saucepan, melt 2/3 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar and cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture reaches a boil. Let it boil for 1 minute, then pour evenly over the crust.
  • Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
  • Add the Chocolate: Remove the crust from the oven and sprinkle the milk chocolate chips over the top. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to melt, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the surface of the bars.
  • Cool and Serve: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into the desired portion sizes.

Notes

  • Room Temperature Butter: Using softened butter will help achieve a crumbly crust that binds well. Cold butter can make the crust too firm.
  • Even Pecan Layer: Sprinkle the pecans evenly so that every bite has a bit of nutty flavor and crunch.
  • Chocolate Topping: Wait the full 5 minutes after adding chocolate chips before spreading. This allows them to melt thoroughly, creating a smoother finish.
  • Cooling Time: Give the bars enough time to cool before slicing to prevent the caramel from becoming too gooey. You can speed up this process by refrigerating them for 15–20 minutes if necessary.
  • Prep Time: 15 Minutes
  • Baking Time: 20 Minutes