Description
These Easy Turtle Bars are the perfect combination of a buttery shortbread base, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate—everything you love about turtle candies, transformed into a simple bar. With just a few steps, you can make a delicious, decadent treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Base:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 14 oz caramels (soft, unwrapped)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts, if preferred)
Instructions
Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
Make the Shortbread Base
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
Add the Caramel Layer
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and melted.
Pour the caramel over the baked shortbread layer, spreading evenly.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.
Add the Chocolate Layer
Evenly sprinkle the chocolate chips over the caramel layer.
Return the pan to the oven for 1-2 minutes, just until the chocolate softens.
Use a spatula to spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.
Chill & Slice
Refrigerate the bars for 1-2 hours, until fully set.
Once set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares.
Notes
Caramel Shortcut: If you don’t want to melt the caramels yourself, you can use pre-made caramel sauce, but be sure to reduce the amount of cream to maintain the right consistency.
Chill for Firmness: Make sure to refrigerate the bars long enough to allow the chocolate and caramel to firm up before cutting.
Customize Toppings: You can switch up the nuts—walnuts or even almonds can give these bars a slightly different twist!