Salted Caramel Turtle Fudge Bars

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Ingredients

For the Shortbread Crust:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup confectioners sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Fudge Topping:

  • 16 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, finely chopped
  • 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 and 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small bits
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
  • 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Instructions

For the Shortbread Base:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, allowing two of the sides to overlap. Spray the parchment – and any exposed pan – with non-stick baking spray; set aside.
  2. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or in a large bowl using a handheld electric mixer, beat the butter, vanilla extract, confectioners sugar, and salt until light and fluffy; about 2 to 3 minutes.
  3. Gradually beat in the flour, mixing just until combined. The mixture will be a little crumbly.
  4. Dump the mixture into the prepared pan and spread or press firmly into an even layer. Bake for 14 to 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Set aside to cool while you prepare the fudge topping.

For the Fudge Topping:

  1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chopped chocolate, sweetened condensed milk, and butter. Microwave, uncovered, on low, in 30-second increments, stirring in between each increment, until the chocolate is completely melted; stir mixture smooth.
  2. Stir in vanilla extract. Spread the mixture over the shortbread, smoothing with a spatula into an even layer.
  3. Pour salted caramel on top of the chocolate mixture, then sprinkle with the toasted pecans.
  4. Refrigerate until firm; about 2 hours. Cut into small squares and serve.

Why You’ll Love These Bars

  • Decadent Layers: Experience the luxurious combination of buttery shortbread, velvety fudge, and gooey caramel.
  • Perfect Harmony: The salted caramel and toasted pecans add a delightful balance of sweetness and crunch.
  • Easy Indulgence: Impress your guests with these bars that are simple to make yet taste like a gourmet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

A: Yes, you can use store-bought salted caramel sauce for convenience, but homemade adds a personal touch.

Q: Can I freeze these bars for later?

A: Absolutely! Ensure they are well wrapped to prevent freezer burn and enjoy them within a month.

Q: What other nuts can I use instead of pecans?

A: Walnuts or almonds can be excellent alternatives, offering different textures and flavors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our Salted Caramel Turtle Fudge Bars are a celebration of indulgence, bringing together layers of flavors for a memorable treat. Whether shared at gatherings or savored as a personal delight, these bars are bound to become a favorite in your repertoire. Try the recipe today and experience the decadence of Salted Caramel Turtle Fudge Bars – a perfect union of sweet and salty in every blissful bite!

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