Easy Turtle Squares
Indulge in the decadent simplicity of Easy Turtle Squares, a quick yet impressive treat that combines the richness of caramel, chocolate, and pecans with a buttery shortbread crust. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these dessert bars come together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making them a go-to for busy bakers. The layers start with a crumbly brown sugar crust, topped with crunchy pecans, creamy caramel, and a smooth chocolate layer that melts in your mouth. Ideal for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as an everyday indulgence, this recipe delivers classic turtle candy flavors in an easy-to-slice, shareable form. Bonus: these bars can be stored in your fridge for up to five days, offering an irresistible make-ahead dessert option!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cups packed brown sugar
- 0.75 cups butter, softened
- 1.5 cups pecans, chopped
- 14 oz sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 11 oz caramel baking bits
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x13-inch baking pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy lifting. Lightly grease the lining to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, packed brown sugar, and softened butter until crumbly. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the crust. Set aside.
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel baking bits and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second increments, stirring after each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Be careful not to overheat.
Drizzle the melted caramel mixture evenly over the pecans, ensuring even coverage.
Bake the pan in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly for 20 minutes.
Once cooled slightly, sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly over the top. Allow the heat of the bars to melt the chocolate for 1–2 minutes, then use a spatula to gently spread the melted chocolate into an even layer.
Let the turtle squares cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set the layers.
Once fully set, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment or foil overhang. Slice into 16 squares and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
455 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 25.8 g | 33% | |
| Saturated Fat | 11.9 g | 60% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 43 mg | 14% | |
| Sodium | 136 mg | 6% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 54.3 g | 20% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 39.0 g | ||
| Protein | 5.5 g | 11% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 98 mg | 8% | |
| Iron | 1.4 mg | 8% | |
| Potassium | 171 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
