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Easy Turtle Bars

Easy Turtle Bars
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Easy Turtle Bars combine a buttery shortbread crust with rich caramel, melted chocolate, and crunchy nuts for a decadent yet simple dessert perfect for any occasion. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors with diverse textures, making it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and customize.

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread Crust

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for adaptation)
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

Toppings

  • 1 cup caramel pieces or caramel sauce
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (or toasted coconut flakes/seeds for nut-free version)
  • 1 to 1 ½ cups chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or white chocolate)

Optional

  • 1 package instant pudding mix (optional for creamy layer)
  • Flaky sea salt for sprinkling (optional for salted caramel twist)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Start by mixing 1 cup softened butter, 2 cups all-purpose flour, and 1 cup packed brown sugar until combined to form a crumbly dough. Press this mixture evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan to create the base that will hold all the delicious layers.
  2. Bake the Base: Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until it turns lightly golden. This step ensures a firm, slightly crisp base that carries the toppings perfectly without becoming soggy.
  3. Add the Caramel and Nuts: Once the crust is warm, sprinkle 1 cup caramel pieces evenly over the surface and scatter 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts on top. The residual heat helps soften the caramel, making it chewy and rich.
  4. Melt the Chocolate: Sprinkle 1 to 1 ½ cups chocolate chips generously over the caramel and nuts, then return the pan to the oven for 3 to 5 minutes. The heat will melt the chocolate, creating a glossy, decadent layer that binds everything together.
  5. Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate until firm. This step is essential for easy slicing and to help the flavors meld. Cut into squares and serve.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and a smooth crust.
  • Don’t overbake the crust to avoid drying it out and maintain chewy texture.
  • Distribute nuts and caramel pieces evenly for balanced taste in each bite.
  • Chill bars before slicing to firm up layers for cleaner cuts.
  • Use high-quality chocolate chips for better melting and richer flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: turtle bars, caramel dessert, chocolate bars, nut dessert, easy baking, sweet bars, crowd-pleaser dessert

Find it online: https://jamescookes.com/easy-turtle-bars/