Pecan Turtles Bars Recipe

Who doesn’t love a delicious, homemade treat? Pecan Turtle Bars are a delightful combination of buttery crust, rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a sweet and satisfying dessert. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these bars are sure to impress.

Ingredients Needed

Main Ingredients

• Crust:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Caramel Layer:
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
• Pecan Layer:
  • 1 1/2 cups pecans, roughly chopped
• Chocolate Topping:
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Optional Additions

• A pinch of sea salt for a salted caramel variation
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in the caramel layer for extra flavor

Equipment Required

Basic Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A whisk
• A rubber spatula
• A sharp knife

Special Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Parchment paper
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl

Step-by-Step Preparation

Preparing the Crust

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix the crust ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until well combined.
3. Press into the pan: Line your baking pan with parchment paper. Press the crust mixture evenly into the bottom of the pan.
4. Bake the crust: Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the caramel layer.

Making the Caramel Layer

1. Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream.
2. Cook the caramel: Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Boil for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Pour over the crust: Carefully pour the caramel over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.

Adding the Pecans

1. Sprinkle the pecans: Evenly distribute the chopped pecans over the caramel layer.
2. Press gently: Lightly press the pecans into the caramel so they adhere well.

Creating the Chocolate Topping

1. Melt the chocolate: Using a double boiler or microwave, melt the chocolate chips until smooth.
2. Spread over pecans: Pour the melted chocolate over the pecan layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.

Baking Instructions

1. Bake again: Place the pan back in the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
2. Cool completely: Allow the bars to cool at room temperature before moving to the next step.

Cooling and Serving

1. Chill in the refrigerator: For best results, refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours to allow the layers to set.
2. Cut into squares: Once chilled, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper and cut into squares or rectangles.
3. Serve: Enjoy your Pecan Turtle Bars as a delightful treat or dessert.

Storage Tips

How to Store the Bars

• Room temperature: Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the bars in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze for later: Place the bars in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months.
• Thaw before serving: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

Ingredient Swaps

• Butter: Use margarine or coconut oil as a substitute for a dairy-free option.
• Pecans: Swap with walnuts, almonds, or your favorite nuts.
• Chocolate: Try using dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate chips.

Flavor Variations

• Salted Caramel: Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel layer.
• Extra Nutty: Add an additional 1/2 cup of nuts to the recipe for more crunch.

Healthier Alternatives

Reducing Sugar

• Sugar alternatives: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia in the crust and caramel layer.

Using Dark Chocolate

• Healthier option: Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a less sweet and more antioxidant-rich topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Avoid Burnt Caramel?

Keep a close eye on the caramel while cooking, and stir constantly to prevent burning.

Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?

Yes, you can use any type of nut you prefer, such as walnuts or almonds.

How to Make It Vegan?

Use dairy-free butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Opt for vegan chocolate chips.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Absolutely! Just use a larger baking pan and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How to Prevent Chocolate from Melting?

Store the bars in a cool place or refrigerate to keep the chocolate from melting.

Conclusion

Pecan Turtle Bars are a delightful, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their rich layers of caramel, chocolate, and pecans, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade Pecan Turtle Bars!

5 Unique FAQs After The Conclusion

1. Can I add coconut to the recipe?
   • Yes, adding shredded coconut to the crust or caramel layer can add a delightful texture and flavor.
2. What’s the best way to cut the bars cleanly?
   • Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure neat, even bars.
3. Can I make these bars gluten-free?
   • Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
4. How can I make the bars chewier?
   • Slightly underbake the crust and caramel layers for a chewier texture.
5. Is it possible to add a fruit layer?
   • Yes, you can add a layer of fruit preserves or fresh fruit slices between the crust and caramel for a fruity twist.

Yield: 4

Pecan Turtles Bars Recipe

Print

Who doesn't love a delicious, homemade treat? Pecan Turtle Bars are a delightful combination of buttery crust, rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate. This recipe is perfect for those who crave a sweet and satisfying dessert. Whether you're making them for a special occasion or just because, these bars are sure to impress.

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 your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Make the Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Beat at medium speed until the mixture resembles fine crumbs, about 2 to 3 minutes. 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 small saucepan over medium heat, melt ⅔ cup butter with ½ cup brown sugar. Stir constantly until the mixture bubbles throughout, then continue for another 30 to 60 seconds. Remove from the heat.
4. Assemble the Layers: Evenly distribute the pecan halves over the crust. Pour the hot brown sugar mixture over the pecans.
5. Bake: Transfer the pan to the oven and bake until the surface is fully bubbly, approximately 18 to 20 minutes.
6. Add the Chocolate Topping: Once baked, remove the bars from the oven and immediately sprinkle milk chocolate chips over the top. Allow the chips to melt for 2 to 3 minutes, then gently swirl the chocolate with a knife or spatula.
7. Cool: Let the bars cool completely in the pan for about 30 minutes. Once cooled, slice into 48 pieces with a sharp knife.