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Caramel and Chocolate Turtle Bars

Caramel and Chocolate Turtle Bars

A dessert that will for sure wow a crowd! These caramel and chocolate turtle bars were inspired by my love for turtle sundaes and chocolate turtles during the holidays! With a German chocolate base, it really takes these to the next level! Topped with evaporated milk , semi sweet chocolate chips and pecans or walnuts! The evaporated milk gives this recipe an extra creamy and sweet flavor that cannot be replicated. Our family loves a weeknight dessert – this is on the menu ASAP!

Wait a minute, why is it called chocolate turtle bars?!

Turtle desserts have three main ingredients – chocolate, caramel and nuts! (Typically walnuts). They got their name because the dipped walnuts took the shape of a turtle. Rest assured, no turtles were harmed in the making of this dessert! These chocolates by Johnson’s Candy Company were initially released in 1918 and are still popular today! Now there are several deserts made from these ingredients designed to taste just like the yummy turtle chocolates!

Caramel and Chocolate Turtle Bars

Caramel and Chocolate Turtle Bars
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 (14 oz.) pkg. caramels
  • 3 Tbsp. cocoa
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • ⅔ c. evaporated milk
  • 1 pkg. German chocolate cake mix
  • ½ c. butter
  • 1 c. chopped walnuts or pecans or sliced almonds
  • 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  1. Melt caramels with ⅓ cup evaporated milk in microwave. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, butter, the rest of the evaporated milk, cocoa, vanilla and nuts. Stir (by hand) until dough holds together.
  3. Press half in prepared 9X13 pan. Bake at 350° for 6 minutes.
  4. Cool on rack sprinkling with chocolate chips. Spread melted caramel over.
  5. Add remaining dough by flattening small amounts and pressing with fingers. It won't cover completely, but it will spread somewhat in oven.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes. Cool slightly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the caramel layer.
  7. Cut into squares.

Ingredients fro Chocolate Turtle Bars:

  • 1 (14 oz.) pkg. caramels
  • 3 Tbsp. cocoa
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • ⅔ c. evaporated milk
  • 1 pkg. German chocolate cake mix
  • ½ c. butter
  • 1 c. chopped walnuts or pecans or sliced almonds
  • 6 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips

What caramels work best for this recipe?

For this recipe, any caramels will do! I have used Kraft caramels as well as Werther’s (photographed below) and they were both tasty, effective, and delicious.

What German chocolate Cake Mix do you like?

The Betty Crocker German Chocolate Cake Mix is readily available at my local store and is delicious in this Chocolate Turtle Bar recipe.

Chocolate Turtle Bars

Chocolate Turtle Bars

Instructions for Caramel and Chocolate Turtle Bars:

  1. Melt caramels with ⅓ cup evaporated milk in microwave. Set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, butter, the rest of the evaporated milk, cocoa, vanilla and nuts. Stir (by hand) until dough holds together.
  3. Press half in prepared 9X13 pan. Bake at 350° for 6 minutes.
  4. Cool on rack sprinkling with chocolate chips. Spread melted caramel over.
  5. Add remaining dough by flattening small amounts and pressing with fingers. It won’t cover completely, but it will spread somewhat in oven.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes. Cool slightly. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to set the caramel layer.
  7. Cut into squares.

Chocolate Turtle Bars

Chocolate Turtle Bars

Chocolate Turtle Bars

How to Store Caramel and Chocolate Turtle Bars

After making these scrumptious dessert, store in the fridge for 2-3 days. I’ve never tried freezing them – I don’t know that I would recommend it because the caramel may not thaw well.

Love family desserts like these Caramel and Chocolate Turtle Bars? Try these!

  1. Texas Sheet Cake
  2. Monster Cookies
  3. My Favorite Banana Bars
4.3/5 (3 Reviews)

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