Description
These Easy Caramel Pecan Turtle Bars are the ultimate sweet treat! A buttery shortbread crust is layered with gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and a drizzle of rich chocolate. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or when you need a dessert that’s as impressive as it is simple to make.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup caramel sauce (or 25 soft caramel candies melted with 2 tablespoons heavy cream)
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Make the Crust:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and butter. Mix until the dough comes together and forms a crumbly texture.
- Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Add Pecans and Caramel:
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the baked crust.
- Pour the caramel sauce over the pecans, spreading it evenly to cover them.
- Bake Again:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly.
- Add Chocolate:
- Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips over the hot caramel layer. Let them sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate evenly.
- Cool and Slice:
- Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
- Once set, slice into bars or squares and serve.
Notes
- For a fun twist, add a pinch of sea salt on top for a salted caramel flavor.
- Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- You can substitute walnuts for pecans if desired.