“`html
When I was a child in Canada, I always remember eating those sticky chocolate and caramel candies that looked like a turtle and were called turtles. I loved those things. When I flipped through the cookbook my mom gave me at my wedding, I found these turtle cookie bars that sounded amazing. They were a must for my friends.
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’s your birthday, you invite your friends or family for coffee or a snack, not the other way around. It took me a while to get used to this little tradition.
So tonight I’m having a few people over for coffee and dessert. And since it’s Christmas time, I always make a few pans of Hello Dollies or Seven Layer Bars, which are the favorite Christmas cookies of my Italian family and friends, but this year I decided to try something new. My next three items will be the 3 desserts I served to my friends. First, there are the Turtle Cookie Bars.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you adore the combination of chocolate, caramel, and pecans, these Turtle Cookie Bars will be your new go-to treat. They’re a delightful blend of textures with a buttery crust, crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate. Perfect for a cozy gathering or a festive occasion.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Electric mixer
- 13×9-inch baking pan
- Medium saucepan
- Knife
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
2nd Layer
- 1 cup of pecan halves or chopped pecans
- 2/3 cup butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup of milk chocolate bites
Step-by-step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- In a bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Beat on medium speed with an electric mixer until the mixture is well blended.
- Press this mixture firmly into an ungreased 13×9-inch baking pan to form the crust.
- Arrange the pecans evenly over the crust.
- In a medium saucepan, combine 2/3 cup butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
- Continue cooking for 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the caramel mixture over the pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the topping is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chocolate bites over the top. Let stand for 2-3 minutes or until the chocolate is slightly melted.
- Gently swirl the chocolate with a knife, leaving some pieces whole for texture. Do not spread completely.
- Allow to cool on a rack at room temperature until the chocolate is set.
- Once cooled, cut into squares and serve.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the butter is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth crust.
- For a deeper caramel flavor, let the sugar and butter mixture boil a few seconds longer, but be cautious not to burn it.
Additional Tips or Variations
- Try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty twist.
- Use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Each serving of Turtle Cookie Bars is packed with flavor and indulgence. However, please enjoy in moderation as they are a sweet treat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of nut? Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be great alternatives to pecans.
How should I store these bars? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Can these bars be frozen? Yes, they freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Conclusion
These Turtle Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that will surely impress your friends and family. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because, they’re bound to become a favorite in your home. Try them out and share your experiences in the comments below!
“`