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Easy Turtle Bars

Easy Turtle Bars

These Easy Turtle Bars are quick and simple to make, combining a buttery crust with gooey caramel, crunchy nuts, and a smooth chocolate topping. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a delightful balance of textures and flavors with classic turtle ingredients—caramel, nuts, and chocolate—that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Versatile and customizable, these bars are great for gifting, parties, or a delicious homemade treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or gluten-free graham cracker crumbs)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Caramel Layer

  • 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Nuts

  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 1/2 cups chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (milk or dark chocolate)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Crust: Start by mixing graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until fully combined. Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of a lined baking pan to create a firm base for the bars.
  2. Make the Caramel Layer: Combine sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat while stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and turns a golden caramel color.
  3. Add the Nuts: Stir chopped pecans or walnuts into the warm caramel, then spread the mixture evenly over the prepared crust, reaching all corners.
  4. Top with Chocolate: Sprinkle chocolate chips generously over the hot caramel and nuts. Let them sit for a minute or two, then spread the melted chocolate into an even layer across the top.
  5. Chill Until Set: Place the pan in the refrigerator for at least two hours, or until the bars are firm and the chocolate topping has solidified. Cut into squares and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use freshly chopped nuts for the best crunch and flavor.
  • Constant stirring while cooking the caramel prevents burning and ensures a smooth texture.
  • Press the crust firmly to avoid bars crumbling when sliced.
  • Allow sufficient chilling time to help bars hold their shape.
  • Use high-quality chocolate chips for improved flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turtle Bars, caramel bars, chocolate and nuts dessert, easy turtle bars recipe, gluten free turtle bars, no bake dessert