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Turtle Bars Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 58 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 48 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These rich and decadent Turtle Bars feature a buttery crumb crust topped with a gooey caramel-like pecan layer and a smooth milk chocolate topping. Perfect for parties and potlucks, these bars combine the classic flavors of turtles candy into one irresistible dessert.


Ingredients

Crust

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup butter, softened

Turtle Layer

  • ⅔ cup butter
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup pecan halves

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bars.
  2. Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Beat at medium speed for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of an ungreased 13×9-inch baking pan to form the crust.
  3. Prepare the Turtle Layer: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt ⅔ cup of butter together with ½ cup brown sugar. Stir constantly to prevent burning until the mixture reaches a bubbling stage. Continue cooking for an additional 30 to 60 seconds. Remove from heat promptly to avoid overcooking.
  4. Assemble the Layers: Evenly spread the pecan halves over the prepared crust in the baking pan. Carefully pour the hot butter and brown sugar mixture over the pecans, distributing it to cover them thoroughly.
  5. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the surface is bubbly and set.
  6. Add the Chocolate Topping: Remove the bars from the oven and immediately sprinkle milk chocolate chips evenly over the hot surface. Allow the chocolate chips to melt for 2 to 3 minutes, then gently swirl the melted chocolate with a knife to create an even topping.
  7. Cool: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes to set the layers before slicing. Cut into 48 pieces and serve.

Notes

  • Press the crust firmly into the pan to ensure it holds together well.
  • Stir the butter and brown sugar mixture constantly to prevent burning during caramel preparation.
  • Use good quality pecans for the best flavor.
  • Allow bars to cool fully before slicing to maintain clean cuts.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.