Easy Caramel Pecan Turtle Bars

Easy Caramel Pecan Turtle Bars are a decadent treat that combines a buttery shortbread base, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and rich chocolate. Perfect for dessert, gifting, or a special snack, these bars are as irresistible as they are easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Decadent: The combination of caramel, pecans, and chocolate is a timeless favorite.
• Simple to Prepare: No fancy equipment or complicated techniques required.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, bake sales, or everyday indulgence.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These bars store beautifully, making them perfect for planning ahead.
• Customizable: Add your own twist with different nuts or a drizzle of white chocolate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Shortbread Base:

• All-purpose flour
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

For the Caramel Layer:

• Brown sugar
• Unsalted butter
• Sweetened condensed milk
• Light corn syrup
• Vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• Chopped pecans
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Shortbread Base:
   • In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and cold butter. Pulse or cut with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
   • Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Caramel Layer:
   • In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, condensed milk, and corn syrup.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches a golden caramel color (about 8–10 minutes).
   • Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Assemble the Bars:
   • Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread base, spreading evenly.
   • Sprinkle chopped pecans over the caramel layer.
5. Add the Chocolate:
   • Sprinkle chocolate chips evenly over the warm caramel and pecans.
   • Let sit for 2–3 minutes to soften, then use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate into a smooth layer.
6. Cool and Set: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
7. Slice and Serve: Use the parchment overhang to lift the bars from the pan. Slice into squares or rectangles and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes approximately 24 bars.
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Cooling Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free: Substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Salted Caramel: Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the caramel for a sweet and salty twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the shortbread base.
• Extra Crunch: Mix in crushed pretzels with the pecans for a salty crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: These bars are best enjoyed at room temperature. Allow refrigerated bars to sit out for about 15 minutes before serving.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made caramel sauce?

While homemade caramel provides the best texture and flavor, you can use pre-made caramel sauce for convenience. Adjust the consistency with a little cornstarch if needed.

2. What other nuts can I use?

Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts are great substitutes for pecans.

3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars are perfect for making ahead and storing for several days.

4. How do I prevent the caramel from sticking to the knife when slicing?

Use a sharp knife and run it under hot water between cuts for clean slices.

5. Can I skip the chocolate layer?

Yes, the bars are still delicious with just the caramel and pecan layers.

6. What if I don’t have corn syrup?

You can substitute corn syrup with honey or maple syrup, though the texture may vary slightly.

7. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter, condensed coconut milk, and vegan chocolate chips.

8. What’s the best way to melt the chocolate evenly?

Let the chocolate chips sit on the warm caramel for a few minutes before spreading for smooth results.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking and cooling times as needed.

10. How long do these bars last?

They stay fresh for up to a week in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Easy Caramel Pecan Turtle Bars are a rich and satisfying treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their buttery base, gooey caramel layer, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate topping, they’re sure to become a favorite dessert in your home. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a little piece of indulgent heaven in every bite!

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