I’m so excited to share this recipe with you today! Pecan Turtle Bars are one of those irresistible treats that blend the best of sweet, salty, and crunchy goodness. Whether you need a simple dessert for a family gathering or just want a sweet snack, these bars are easy to make and incredibly delicious. The rich caramel layer, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate topping all come together in perfect harmony! You’ll be reaching for seconds—trust me.
So, let’s get baking!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
For the Turtle Layer:
- ⅔ cup butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pecan halves
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
How to Make Pecan Turtle Bars – Step By Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grab a 13×9-inch baking pan. No need to grease the pan for this recipe.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it looks like fine crumbs (about 2-3 minutes). Once ready, press the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom of your pan to form a nice, even crust.
Step 3: Prepare the Turtle Layer
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar. Keep stirring until bubbles form across the entire surface. Continue cooking for another 30-60 seconds, then remove from heat.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Sprinkle the pecan halves evenly over the crust in the baking pan. Pour the hot brown sugar mixture over the pecans, ensuring an even spread.
Step 5: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the entire surface is bubbly.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Topping
Remove the pan from the oven and set it on a wire rack. While it’s still hot, sprinkle the chocolate chips over the surface. Let the chocolate sit for 2-3 minutes to melt, then use a small spatula or knife to gently swirl the melted chocolate.
Step 7: Cool and Cut
Allow the bars to cool completely, about 30 minutes. Once they’re set, use a sharp knife to cut them into 48 small bars.
Details and nutritional information
Details:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Additional Time: 30 minutes (cooling)
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 48 bars
Nutrition (per serving):
Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 114
Sugar: 9g
Cholesterol: 15mg
Helpful Tips
- Even Spread: When pouring the caramel mixture over the pecans, try to do it as evenly as possible to avoid patches of uncoated pecans.
- Cool Completely: It’s important to let the bars cool fully before cutting. If you try to cut too soon, the chocolate may not set properly and could become messy.
Substitutions & Variations
- Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to substitute with walnuts or almonds. They offer a slightly different texture and flavor but are just as delicious.
- Dark Chocolate: Swap the milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate if you prefer a less sweet chocolate layer. It adds a rich, slightly bitter note that pairs well with the caramel.
- Salted Caramel Twist: For a trendy twist, sprinkle a little sea salt over the top of the chocolate for salted caramel vibes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these bars without nuts?
Yes! If you’re not into nuts or have an allergy, you can skip the pecans. Thanks to the caramel and chocolate layers, the bars will still be rich and flavorful.
Can I freeze Pecan Turtle Bars?
Definitely! Once the bars are completely cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Do I have to use milk chocolate?
Nope! You can use any chocolate you prefer, from semi-sweet to dark chocolate. Just adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Storage Instructions
Store these Pecan Turtle Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want them to last a little longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just note that the chocolate layer may harden a bit more in the fridge.
Whether you’re making these Pecan Turtle Bars for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, I hope they bring a smile to your face. Happy baking!
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Pecan Turtle Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 48 bars 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Turtle Bars are a delicious blend of buttery crust, caramelized pecans, and rich chocolate. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for any occasion. With a crisp base, a layer of caramel pecans, and a swirled chocolate topping, these bars are sure to be a hit! Simple ingredients and big flavor—bake them today and enjoy!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
For the Turtle Layer:
- ⅔ cup butter
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pecan halves
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Beat on medium speed until crumbly (2-3 minutes). Press evenly into a 13×9-inch ungreased baking pan to form the crust.
- Make the Turtle Layer: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and cook until bubbles form across the surface. Continue stirring for 30-60 seconds, then remove from heat.
- Assemble: Sprinkle pecan halves evenly over the crust. Pour the hot brown sugar mixture on top.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the surface is bubbly.
- Add Chocolate: Immediately after removing from the oven, sprinkle chocolate chips on top. Let them melt for 2-3 minutes, then swirl the chocolate with a spatula.
- Cool & Cut: Allow the bars to cool completely (about 30 minutes), then slice into 48 bars.
Notes
- Make sure to let the bars cool completely before cutting to avoid a gooey mess.
- For a salty-sweet twist, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate.
- You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 114
- Sugar: 9g
- Cholesterol: 15mg