Description
Sinful caramel pecan turtle bars combine chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a delectable dessert. Rich layers of sweet ingredients create a memorable treat perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups (480 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups (180 g) chopped pecans
- 1 cup (170 g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup (240 ml) caramel sauce
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tbsps (30 ml) heavy cream (if using caramel candies)
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease to facilitate easy removal.
- Crust Formation: Mix flour, sugar, and butter until a crumbly texture develops. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan, creating a uniform base. Bake for 15 minutes until a light golden color emerges.
- Pecan Layer: Distribute chopped pecans uniformly across the baked crust, ensuring complete coverage for consistent flavor and texture.
- Caramel Infusion: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pecan layer, using a spatula to spread evenly and create a comprehensive coating that encompasses all pecans.
- Caramelization: Return pan to oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, allowing caramel to become bubbly and slightly caramelized, which intensifies the overall flavor profile.
- Chocolate Overlay: Remove pan from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate chips across the hot caramel surface. Allow chips to melt naturally from residual heat for 2-3 minutes.
- Chocolate Smoothing: Gently spread melted chocolate using a spatula, creating a smooth layer that completely covers the caramel and pecan surface.
- Cooling and Setting: Let bars cool at room temperature to help layers set. Transfer to refrigerator and chill for at least one hour to firm up and facilitate clean cutting.
- Serving: Carefully slice into desired serving sizes and present for enjoyment.
Notes
- Crust Consistency Check: Ensure the crust mixture is just crumbly enough to hold together when pressed, avoiding over-mixing which can lead to a tough base.
- Pecan Placement Technique: Chop pecans uniformly to guarantee even distribution and consistent crunch in every bite, preventing clumping or bare spots.
- Caramel Spreading Strategy: Work quickly when spreading caramel to maintain an even layer, using a warm spatula for smoother application and preventing premature hardening.
- Chocolate Melting Hack: Let chocolate chips rest undisturbed after sprinkling to maximize natural melting, then gently spread with minimal movement to preserve a glossy finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 17
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg