Easy Turtle Bars Recipe
Introduction
Easy Turtle Bars are a delightful treat combining a crunchy graham cracker crust, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts. This no-fuss recipe delivers a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, ideal for any dessert lover.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter; press firmly into the prepared pan.
- Step 3: Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the crust, then sprinkle chocolate chips and chopped nuts on top.
- Step 4: Bake for about 25 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Let cool completely before slicing into bars.
- Step 5: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cooled bars for an extra touch of decadence.
Tips & Variations
- Use either pecans or walnuts based on your preference or what you have on hand.
- For extra gooey bars, slightly underbake by 2-3 minutes.
- Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top after drizzling caramel to enhance the flavors.
- Substitute chocolate chips with butterscotch or white chocolate chips for a different twist.
Storage
Store cooled bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Reheat gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if desired, especially after adding caramel.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes, you can substitute pecans or walnuts with almonds, hazelnuts, or your favorite nuts. Just be sure to chop them finely for even distribution.
Do I need to line the pan with parchment paper?
While not absolutely necessary, lining the pan with parchment paper makes it much easier to lift the bars out cleanly and helps with easier slicing.
PrintEasy Turtle Bars Recipe
Delicious and easy-to-make Turtle Bars featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with sweetened condensed milk, melted chocolate chips, and crunchy chopped nuts, baked to golden perfection and optionally drizzled with caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 bars 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling and Topping
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- Caramel sauce (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13 inch baking pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease of removal.
- Make Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form an even crust layer.
- Add Filling and Toppings: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the graham cracker crust. Then sprinkle the semi-sweet chocolate chips evenly on top, followed by the chopped pecans or walnuts.
- Bake Bars: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the edges turn a light golden brown and the filling is set.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, optionally drizzle with warm caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness and serve by slicing into bars.
Notes
- Press the crust firmly to ensure it holds together well after baking.
- Use parchment paper to make it easier to lift the bars out of the pan without breaking.
- For a nut-free version, omit the nuts or replace with seeds.
- Caramel drizzle is optional but highly recommended for enhanced flavor.
- Store bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Keywords: Turtle bars, dessert bars, graham cracker crust, chocolate chip bars, nutty dessert, easy bake dessert
