Get ready to experience a mouthwatering explosion of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight! These Loaded Turtle Cookie Bars are not just a dessert - they're a decadent journey through layers of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Whether you're looking to impress at a potluck or satisfy your sweet tooth, these irresistible bars are about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 16 bars
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal of the bars.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans using a spatula or wooden spoon, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Spread half of the cookie dough mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan. Use a spatula to press it down firmly into an even layer.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the cookie dough layer, spreading it gently with the back of a spoon to cover as much surface area as possible.
- Carefully drop spoonfuls of the remaining cookie dough over the caramel layer. It’s okay if some caramel is still visible; just try to cover most of it.
- Once the top layer of cookie dough is in place, drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top. Use a knife or spatula to swirl it slightly into the dough for a marbled effect.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter.
- Remove the baking pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the bars to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, cut into 16 bars and serve. Enjoy your delicious Loaded Turtle Cookie Bars!
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for the smoothest, creamiest cookie base possible.
- Don't overmix the dough - this can make your bars tough instead of tender.
- For an extra luxurious touch, use high-quality chocolate chips and pure caramel sauce.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean, perfect squares.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days (if they last that long!).
- For a professional presentation, drizzle some extra caramel and sprinkle chopped pecans on top before serving.
- Want to make them extra special? Try adding a pinch of sea salt on top for a gourmet twist!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
