Turtle Chocolate Caramel-Pecan Squares
Indulge in the perfect combination of rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans with these Turtle Chocolate Caramel-Pecan Squares. The luxurious layers of flavors and textures come together beautifully, making these squares an irresistible treat for any occasion. With a crispy chocolate base, a gooey caramel-pecan topping, and a delicate drizzle of melted chocolate, they’re sure to impress at your next party, holiday gathering, or as an everyday indulgence. Follow this detailed recipe from Love With Recipes for a delectable dessert that will surely leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients for Turtle Chocolate Caramel-Pecan Squares
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 1/4 cup (4 tbsp) |
| Brown Sugar | 1 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/4 tsp |
| Granulated Sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Light Corn Syrup | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 3 tbsp |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Pecans | 1 1/2 cups (chopped) |
| Mini Chocolate Chips (optional) | 1/3 cup |
| Semi-Sweet Chocolate | 1/3 cup (for garnish) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 327.8 kcal |
| Total Fat | 20.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 45.3 mg |
| Sodium | 150.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 37.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.7 g |
| Sugars | 25.2 g |
| Protein | 3.8 g |
Instructions for Making Turtle Chocolate Caramel-Pecan Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the oven rack in the center for even baking. Next, butter a 9-inch square baking pan and lightly dust it with flour, tapping off any excess. This will ensure your squares don’t stick and come out easily.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Base
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter and 1/3 cup of semi-sweet chocolate over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Once melted, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool to a lukewarm temperature.
Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Stir until well combined. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating each in thoroughly with a wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet chocolate mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix, as this can affect the texture of your squares. If desired, fold in 1/3 cup of mini chocolate chips for an extra burst of chocolate flavor.
Step 4: Bake the Chocolate Layer
Spread the chocolate batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from the oven and allow the chocolate layer to cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 5: Make the Caramel-Pecan Topping
For the caramel-pecan layer, combine 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup, 3 tablespoons of water, and a pinch of salt in a heavy saucepan. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Once dissolved, stop stirring and allow the mixture to boil until it turns a golden caramel color.
Remove the pan from the heat, then carefully stir in 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble up and may cause steam. Once the cream is fully incorporated, stir in 1 1/2 cups of chopped pecans.
Step 6: Assemble the Squares
Quickly pour the caramel-pecan mixture over the cooled chocolate base, spreading it evenly with a spatula. For an extra touch, drizzle melted semi-sweet chocolate over the caramel topping for decoration, if desired.
Step 7: Chill and Set
Cover the pan loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate the squares for at least 4 hours or until the caramel layer is firm. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once the caramel has set, remove the squares from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature before cutting them into 16 squares. Serve immediately or store the squares in the refrigerator for up to 6 days for continued freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Turtle Chocolate Caramel-Pecan Squares
- Let the chocolate layer cool completely before adding the caramel-pecan topping to ensure the layers don’t mix.
- Chill the squares thoroughly to let the caramel set properly and make cutting easier.
- If you prefer a nuttier texture, you can toast the pecans before adding them to the caramel for an extra layer of flavor.
- For a more intense chocolate flavor, use high-quality dark chocolate or a combination of dark and semi-sweet chocolate in the base layer.
These Turtle Chocolate Caramel-Pecan Squares are the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves indulgent treats. With the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy elements, they make for a delightful bite every time. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, these squares are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try them today and see for yourself why they’re a favorite on Love With Recipes!
