Caramel Pecan Turtles Bars

If you love rich, nutty, and indulgent desserts, these Caramel Pecan Turtles Bars will steal your heart. Inspired by the classic turtle candies, this layered dessert bar features a buttery shortbread crust, gooey caramel, toasted pecans, and a smooth chocolate topping. It’s everything you love about turtles—transformed into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dessert that’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or anytime you need a sweet fix. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines caramel, pecans, and chocolate in every gooey bite
• Easy to make in a single baking dish—no candy-making required
• Great for make-ahead desserts, gifting, or parties
• Tastes like classic turtles in bar form—rich, chewy, and satisfying

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the caramel layer:

• 1 (14 oz) bag soft caramels, unwrapped
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted

For the chocolate layer:

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother texture)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, flour, brown sugar, and salt until a soft dough forms.
3. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. While the crust bakes, melt caramels with heavy cream in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
5. Once the crust is out of the oven, pour the caramel evenly over the warm crust.
6. Sprinkle toasted pecans over the caramel layer and gently press them down.
7. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
8. Drizzle or spread the chocolate evenly over the pecan layer.
9. Chill the bars in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until fully set.
10. Use the parchment paper to lift bars out, then slice into squares.

Serving Tips

Serve Caramel Pecan Turtles Bars chilled or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. For a clean presentation, use a sharp knife and wipe between cuts. These bars are perfect for dessert platters, cookie exchanges, or packaged as edible gifts during the holidays. For an extra indulgent touch, top with a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving.

Storage Tips

Store Caramel Pecan Turtles Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. For longer storage, freeze the bars (separated by parchment paper) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. Keep them chilled if you’re serving in warm weather to prevent the chocolate and caramel from melting.

Timing Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
• Yield: 24 bars

Optional Variations

• Nut alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
• Salted caramel twist: Use salted caramels or sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for a sweet-salty balance.
• Dark chocolate option: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer flavor.
• Gluten-free version: Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the crust.
• Drizzle design: Instead of spreading the chocolate layer, drizzle it in zig-zag patterns for a bakery-style look.

Related Recipes

• Salted Caramel Pretzel Bark
• Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
• Millionaire’s Shortbread

Conclusion

These Caramel Pecan Turtles Bars combine all your favorite flavors—rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and silky chocolate—in one irresistible dessert. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they’re sure to become a go-to treat for holidays, parties, or anytime you want a decadent sweet bite. Try this recipe and enjoy a homemade classic that everyone will love!

FAQs

Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramels?
A: Yes, but make sure the sauce is thick and not too runny to avoid a soggy crust.

Q: How do I toast pecans?
A: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.

Q: Can I make these bars ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! They store well and taste even better after a day or two.

Q: How do I prevent the chocolate from melting?
A: Keep the bars refrigerated in warm weather and handle them with cool hands.

📖 Recipe

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