Description
Easy Turtle Bars are a decadent and delicious treat featuring a buttery crumb crust topped with rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and melted semi-sweet chocolate chips. These bars are perfect for dessert or sharing at gatherings, combining a delightful blend of textures and flavors in just about 32 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, all-purpose flour, and granulated sugar. Stir the ingredients together until the mixture becomes crumbly and well blended.
- Press and Bake Crust: Evenly press the crumbly dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan forming a consistent layer. Bake this crust for 10 to 12 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden.
- Cool Crust and Add Caramel: Allow the crust to cool for about 5 minutes, which lets it set slightly. Then, spread the caramel sauce evenly over the crust to create a thick, luscious layer.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the pecan halves evenly over the caramel, followed by an even layer of semi-sweet chocolate chips. This combination provides a perfect blend of crunch and chocolatey goodness.
- Bake Again: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until you see the caramel bubbling, ensuring the top is nicely warmed and melded with the toppings.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan. Once cool, cut into squares and enjoy these irresistible bars.
Notes
- Ensure the crust is lightly golden before removing from the oven to achieve the perfect texture.
- Letting the bars cool completely helps them set properly for neat cutting.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- For easier removal, let the bars cool in the pan before lifting out using the parchment paper.
- Store leftover bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
