Description
Indulgent turtle bars showcase rich caramel, chocolate, and pecans layered on a buttery shortbread crust. Chocolate lovers will savor each sinful bite of this classic Southern dessert that promises pure bliss.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ⅔ cup butter (or 151 g)
- ½ cup (8 tbsps) butter, softened (or 113 g)
Instructions
- Prepare Crust: Mix flour, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly. Press mixture firmly into an ungreased rectangular baking pan, creating a compact, even base layer.
- Create Caramel Layer: In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar, stirring continuously until bubbling. Maintain heat for an additional minute to develop deep, rich flavors.
- Build Nutty Foundation: Distribute pecan halves evenly across the prepared crust, creating a textural landscape of crunchy nuts.
- Bake and Caramelize: Pour the molten sugar mixture over pecans, ensuring complete coverage. Place in a preheated oven at 350°F for 18-20 minutes until the surface becomes effervescent and golden.
- Chocolate Finish: Immediately after removing from oven, sprinkle milk chocolate chips across the hot surface. Allow chips to melt, then gently swirl with a knife to create a marbled chocolate design.
- Cool and Slice: Let the bars cool completely in the pan, allowing layers to set and solidify. Carefully cut into approximately 48 delectable squares, ready to be enjoyed.
Notes
- Prep Like a Pro: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Crust Consistency Matters: Press the base firmly and evenly to create a sturdy foundation that holds together perfectly.
- Caramel Caution: Continuously stir the butter and brown sugar to prevent burning and achieve a smooth, rich sauce.
- Chocolate Melting Magic: Let residual heat melt chocolate chips naturally for a glossy, smooth finish without additional heating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 17
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg