The Frugal Gourmet's Southern Barbecue Sauce

Turtle Squares



Turtle squares are a delicious and decadent dessert that is perfect for any occasion. They are made with a shortbread crust, caramel, pecans, and chocolate, and they are sure to please everyone who tries them.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1 cup pecan halves

  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.

  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

  4. Press the dough into the prepared baking pan.

  5. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.

  6. Pour the caramel over the dough in the baking pan.

  7. Sprinkle the pecans over the caramel.

  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the caramel is bubbling.

  9. Let cool completely in the pan.

  10. Once cooled, spread the chocolate chips over the top of the bars.

  11. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Tips:

  • For a chewier crust, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.

  • For a richer flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.

  • For a more intense caramel flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of salt to the caramel mixture.

  • If you don't have a 9x13 inch baking pan, you can use two 8x8 inch baking pans. Just adjust the baking time accordingly.

  • To make the bars ahead of time, bake and cool them completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve them, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cutting into squares.

Enjoy!

Here are some additional thoughts and stories about turtle squares:

  • Turtle squares are a classic dessert that has been around for many years. They are said to have originated in the United States in the early 1900s.

  • Turtle squares are a popular dessert for holidays and special occasions. They are also a great dessert to make for potlucks and parties.

  • Turtle squares are a delicious and decadent dessert that is sure to please everyone who tries them. They are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy.

  • I first had turtle squares when I was a kid. My mom used to make them for special occasions. I loved the combination of the sweet caramel, the salty pecans, and the rich chocolate.

  • I have made turtle squares for many years now. I always get rave reviews from my friends and family. They are a surefire hit!

  • If you are looking for a delicious and decadent dessert, I highly recommend trying turtle squares. They are sure to become a new favorite!


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