Turtle Bars: The Ultimate Easy Homemade Candy

Turtle Bars are an indulgent treat that combines the buttery richness of a shortbread crust, the gooey sweetness of homemade caramel, and the satisfying crunch of pecans, all topped with a smooth layer of melted chocolate. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday party, or simply a special treat for yourself. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at how to make Turtle Bars, step by step, and explore some tips and tricks to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

Ingredients Breakdown

Shortbread Base

The foundation of Turtle Bars is a simple yet delicious shortbread crust. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups flour: Provides structure to the crust.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: Gives the crust its rich, buttery taste.

Turtle Layer

The turtle layer is where the magic happens, combining caramel, pecans, and chocolate:

• 1 cup unsalted butter: Essential for making the caramel rich and smooth.
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed: The key ingredient for caramel, adding depth of flavor.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Helps achieve the perfect caramel consistency.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 2 cups pecans, chopped: Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
• 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips (about 2 cups): Creates a luscious chocolate topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 13×9-inch baking dish by spraying it with baking spray. This will prevent the bars from sticking and make for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Base

In a stand mixer, combine the flour, brown sugar, and softened butter. Mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes crumbly. This crumbly texture is essential for a tender shortbread crust. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating a smooth and even layer. This will form the sturdy base for the gooey caramel and crunchy pecans.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir the mixture constantly over medium heat until it comes to a boil. Once boiling, continue to cook for an additional minute. This short cooking time ensures the caramel is smooth and rich without becoming too hard or sticky. Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately pour the caramel mixture over the shortbread base, spreading it evenly.

Step 4: Add the Pecans

Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the warm caramel layer. The pecans will add a delightful crunch to each bite of the Turtle Bars.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. The caramel will bubble and the shortbread base will turn golden brown. This baking time ensures the caramel sets properly while the shortbread retains its buttery tenderness.

Step 6: Chocolate Topping

As soon as you remove the bars from the oven, sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top. Let them sit for about 5 minutes to melt. Covering the pan with a baking sheet can help keep the heat in and ensure the chocolate melts evenly. Once melted, use an offset spatula or fork to spread the chocolate into a smooth layer.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Allow the Turtle Bars to cool completely before slicing them into squares. This cooling time lets the caramel set and the chocolate harden, making for clean, neat slices.

Tips for Perfect Turtle Bars

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: Since there are few ingredients, their quality will significantly impact the final product. Use good-quality butter, chocolate, and fresh pecans for the best results.
2. Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature before starting. This helps it blend more easily with the flour and sugar, creating a better texture for the shortbread base.
3. Consistent Stirring: When making the caramel, stir continuously to prevent the sugar from burning and to ensure a smooth mixture.
4. Even Spreading: When pouring the caramel and chocolate layers, spread them evenly to ensure each bite has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
5. Cooling Time: Allow ample time for the Turtle Bars to cool before cutting. This not only makes slicing easier but also ensures the layers set properly.

Variations to Try

While the classic Turtle Bars recipe is already delightful, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste:

• Sea Salt Turtle Bars: Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt over the chocolate layer before it sets. The salt enhances the flavors and adds a sophisticated touch.
• Nutty Variations: Substitute the pecans with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts for a different flavor and texture.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer, more intense chocolate flavor.
• Espresso Caramel: Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the caramel mixture for a subtle coffee flavor that complements the chocolate and pecans.

Serving and Storing Turtle Bars

Turtle Bars are best enjoyed at room temperature, where the caramel is soft and the chocolate is firm but not hard. Serve them as a dessert at gatherings, or package them up as a sweet gift for friends and family.

To store Turtle Bars, place them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze them for longer storage. Simply wrap the bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

While Turtle Bars are undeniably indulgent, it’s good to know their nutritional content:

• Calories: 573 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Cholesterol: 62mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Potassium: 230mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 35g
• Vitamin A: 727 IU
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 54mg
• Iron: 3mg

While these bars are high in calories and fat, they are meant to be a special treat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a foolproof recipe, there are a few common issues that can arise when making Turtle Bars. Here’s how to address them:

Caramel Not Setting Properly

• Problem: The caramel layer remains too soft or runny.
• Solution: Ensure you cook the caramel mixture until it reaches a full boil and then for an additional minute. This process helps achieve the right consistency. Also, make sure to use heavy cream as it has the right fat content to help set the caramel.

Shortbread Crust Crumbling

• Problem: The shortbread base is too crumbly and doesn’t hold together.
• Solution: Make sure the butter is fully integrated into the flour and sugar mixture. It should look crumbly but hold together when pressed into the baking dish. If it’s too dry, you can add a tablespoon of cold water to help bind the dough.

Chocolate Not Melting Evenly

• Problem: The chocolate chips don’t melt smoothly or evenly.
• Solution: As soon as the bars come out of the oven, sprinkle the chocolate chips and cover the pan with a baking sheet or aluminum foil to trap the heat. This helps the chocolate melt more evenly. After 5 minutes, spread the chocolate gently with an offset spatula.

Slicing the Bars

• Problem: The bars are difficult to cut, and the layers separate.
• Solution: Allow the bars to cool completely before slicing. Using a sharp knife, run it under hot water, then wipe dry before each cut. This helps create clean slices without cracking the chocolate layer.

Enhancing Presentation

Presentation can make your Turtle Bars even more appealing. Here are some tips:

Decorative Drizzle

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some additional chocolate and use a spoon or a piping bag to drizzle over the top in a zigzag pattern after the bars have cooled.
• Caramel Drizzle: Similarly, you can drizzle some extra caramel sauce for an added touch of decadence.

Nut Garnish

• Whole Pecans: Place a whole pecan on each bar after spreading the chocolate. This not only enhances the look but also adds an extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• With Ice Cream: Serve the bars warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side can add a light, creamy contrast to the rich bars.

Making Turtle Bars Ahead of Time

Turtle Bars are an excellent make-ahead dessert. Here’s how you can prepare them in advance:

Refrigeration

Prepare the bars as directed, allow them to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring them to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the bars. Once they are completely cooled, cut them into squares and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped bars in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw the bars in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.

Turtle Bars for Special Diets

While the classic Turtle Bars are quite indulgent, you can make adjustments to cater to different dietary needs:

Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace the regular flour in the shortbread crust. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Vegan

To make vegan Turtle Bars:

• Replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute.
• Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• Opt for dairy-free chocolate chips.

Lower Sugar

Reduce the amount of brown sugar in both the shortbread and caramel layers. You can also use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar to lower the overall sugar content.

Creative Uses for Turtle Bars

Turtle Bars are not just limited to being served as squares. Here are some creative ways to enjoy them:

Turtle Bar Sundae

Crumble Turtle Bars over vanilla or chocolate ice cream, add some whipped cream, and a cherry on top for a decadent sundae.

Turtle Bar Trifle

Layer chunks of Turtle Bars with whipped cream and chocolate pudding in a trifle dish for a stunning and delicious dessert.

Turtle Bar Milkshake

Blend pieces of Turtle Bars with vanilla ice cream and milk for a rich and creamy milkshake.

The History of Turtle Candies

Turtle candies, the inspiration behind Turtle Bars, have an interesting history. The combination of chocolate, caramel, and pecans was first created in the early 1900s by DeMet’s Candy Company. The name “Turtle” was given due to the candies’ resemblance to a turtle’s shell, with the pecans sticking out like little legs. These treats quickly gained popularity and became a beloved candy, leading to various adaptations like the Turtle Bars we enjoy today.

Conclusion

Turtle Bars are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. With their rich shortbread base, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate topping, they are truly the ultimate homemade candy. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, Turtle Bars are sure to impress. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can create perfect Turtle Bars every time. Happy baking!