Turtle Cookie Bars
When I was a kid in Canada, I can always remember eating these ooey-gooey chocolate caramel sweets that supposedly resembled a turtle and, needless to say, were called Turtles.
I loved those things. And now, I love these Turtle Cookie Bars. So when I was flipping through a cookbook my Mom gave me when I first got married, I found these amazing-sounding Turtle Cookie Bars. These, my friends, were a definite must.
Not only for me but also because I was looking for an extra treat to make today. Yes, today is my birthday.
In Italy, when it is your birthday, you are the one to invite friends or family out for a coffee or snack, not the other way around. It took me a while to get used to that little tradition.
So tonight, I am having a few people over for coffee and dessert. And since it is Christmas time, I always make a few pans of Hello Dollies or Seven Layer Bars, which are my Italian family and friends’ favorite Christmas cookie, but this year I decided to try something new.
My next three posts are going to be the three desserts I served my friends. To start are these Turtle Cookie Bars.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Turtle Cookie Bars are a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The buttery crust, crunchy pecans, creamy caramel, and melted chocolate create a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the classic Turtle candies or new to the experience, these bars are sure to become a favorite.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- 13×9 inch baking pan
- Wire rack
Ingredients
Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
2nd Layer:
- 1 cup pecan halves or chopped pecans
- 2/3 cup butter
- 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1 cup milk chocolate morsels
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of softened butter. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until blended.
- Pat the mixture firmly into an ungreased 13×9 inch pan to form the crust.
- Arrange the pecans evenly over the crust.
- In a saucepan, combine 2/3 cup butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, and cook for 3 minutes.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the pecans.
- Bake for 15-17 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chocolate morsels. Let them stand for 2-3 minutes until slightly melted.
- Gently swirl the chocolate with a knife, leaving some morsels whole. Do not spread.
- Let cool on a wire rack at room temperature until the chocolate is set. Cut into squares.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the butter is softened before mixing it with the flour and sugar for the crust.
- Stir the caramel mixture constantly to prevent it from burning.
- Allow the chocolate to melt slightly before swirling to achieve a marbled effect.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try using dark chocolate morsels for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the melted chocolate for a sweet and salty twist.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts can be a great substitute for pecans in this recipe.
How should I store these cookie bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Can I freeze Turtle Cookie Bars?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
These Turtle Cookie Bars are a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet craving. I hope you enjoy making and eating them as much as I do. If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out in the comments below!