Description
Indulge in Decadent Pecan Turtle Bars. Rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and buttery shortbread combine in these irresistible treats.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/3 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 10 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Preheat Position your oven rack in the center and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line your 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang on the sides for easy removal. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base In a food processor, pulse the flour, sugar, and salt to combine. Add the cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can also use your fingertips to rub the butter into the dry ingredients if you don’t have a food processor. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into your prepared pan. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to create a smooth, compact surface. Prick the dough all over with a fork.
- Step 3: Bake the Shortbread Bake the shortbread base for 20-22 minutes until the edges are just beginning to turn golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool completely in the pan while you prepare the caramel layer.
- Step 4: Toast the Pecans While the shortbread cools, spread your pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until fragrant and slightly darkened. Watch carefully to prevent burning! Let them cool while preparing the caramel.
- Step 5: Prepare the Caramel In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, honey, and salt. Stir constantly until butter melts completely and sugar dissolves. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for exactly 3 minutes without stirring. Remove from heat and carefully stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract (mixture will bubble vigorously).
- Step 6: Assemble the Caramel Pecan Layer Arrange the toasted pecans evenly over the cooled shortbread base. Slowly pour the hot caramel over the pecans, using a spatula to ensure even coverage if needed. Let this layer cool for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 7: Add the Chocolate Topping Place chocolate chips and vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely melted and smooth. Pour over the cooled caramel layer and spread evenly with an offset spatula. For a decorative touch, drag a toothpick through the chocolate to create swirls or patterns.
- Step 8: Chill and Cut Refrigerate the Decadent Pecan Turtle Bars for at least 2 hours or until completely set. Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the entire slab out of the pan. With a sharp knife dipped in hot water and dried between cuts, slice into 24 bars or smaller bite-sized pieces if desired.
Notes
Fresh ingredients will always yield the best flavor results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 125mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg