Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the first three ingredients for the crust. Beat at medium speed with an electric mixer until well blended. Pat the mixture firmly into an ungreased 13×9 inch pan.
- Arrange Pecans: Arrange pecan halves or chopped pecans evenly over the crust.
- Prepare Caramel Layer: In a saucepan, combine 2/3 cup butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Cook for 3 minutes, continuing to stir constantly.
- Pour Caramel Mixture: Pour the hot caramel mixture over the arranged pecans.
- Bake: Bake at 350 degrees for 15-17 minutes or until the edges are golden and the caramel is bubbly.
- Add Chocolate Morsels: Remove the pan from the oven and immediately sprinkle the milk chocolate morsels over the hot caramel. Let them stand for 2-3 minutes or until slightly melted.
- Swirl Chocolate: Gently swirl the melted chocolate with a knife, leaving some morsels whole. Do not spread.
- Cool and Cut: Let the bars cool on a wire rack at room temperature until the chocolate is set. Once set, cut into squares.
Serve and Enjoy: Indulge in the decadent layers of these Turtle Cookie Bars, balancing the buttery crust, gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and luscious chocolate. Perfect for any sweet occasion! 🍫🐢
