Description

Pecan Turtle Bars are a delectable dessert that combines the buttery crunch of shortbread with rich, gooey caramel, toasted pecans, and a smooth layer of melted chocolate. These bars are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or whenever you crave a sweet, indulgent treat. With their blend of textures and flavors, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Shortbread Crust:

2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup powdered sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Caramel Layer:

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup light corn syrup
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

For the Topping:

2 cups coarsely chopped pecans
1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, and softened butter until the dough forms. Press the dough evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn light golden brown. Set aside to cool slightly.
Make the Caramel Layer:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Stir constantly and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring continuously, until the caramel thickens and turns a deep golden color. Pour the caramel evenly over the baked crust.
Add the Pecan Topping:
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer, pressing them down gently into the caramel. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the caramel is bubbly and the pecans are toasted.
Add and Spread the Chocolate:
Remove the bars from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel and pecans. Let the chocolate sit for a few minutes to melt, then spread it evenly over the top using a spatula.
Cool and Set:
Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cool, refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the chocolate. After setting, cut the bars into squares and enjoy!

Notes

Butter: For a richer flavor, make sure to use high-quality unsalted butter. If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Caramel: Stir the caramel constantly while cooking to prevent it from burning or separating. If it starts to crystallize, add a tablespoon of cream or butter to bring it back together.
Pecans: Toasting the pecans adds extra flavor and crunch. You can swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or any other nuts you prefer.
Variations: Experiment with dark or white chocolate for a different flavor twist. For a salted caramel version, sprinkle sea salt over the melted chocolate before it sets.