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Easy Turtle Bars

Easy Turtle Bars are a rich and decadent treat featuring layers of buttery shortbread, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Parchment paper
  • Microwave-safe bowl
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • For the Shortbread Base:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 14-ounce bag of caramels, unwrapped
  • 3 tablespoons heavy cream
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips

Instructions
 

  • Preheat and Prepare
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line a 9x13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
  • Make the Shortbread Base
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, flour, and sugar. Mix until crumbly.
  • Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
  • Bake for 15–20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
  • Prepare the Caramel
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels and heavy cream.
  • Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until fully melted and smooth.
  • Assemble the Turtle Bars
  • Pour the melted caramel evenly over the baked shortbread crust.
  • Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel layer.
  • Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 15-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Drizzle or spread the chocolate over the caramel and pecans.
  • Cool and Slice
  • Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate until set.
  • Once firm, lift the bars out using the parchment paper overhang and cut into squares or rectangles.