If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts with layers of gooey caramel, melty chocolate, and crunchy pecans—this one’s for you. These Caramel Chocolate Pecan Bars are everything you love about turtle candies, baked into a decadent dessert bar that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a sweet treat!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Cake Layer:
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix (or chocolate fudge)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Caramel Layer:
- 1 (14 oz) bag of soft caramels, unwrapped
- 1/3 cup evaporated milk
Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips or chunks
- 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra flavor)
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cake Base:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, melted butter, evaporated milk, and vanilla extract until combined (batter will be thick).
- Press half of the batter into the bottom of the prepared dish and bake for 8–10 minutes, just until set.
2️⃣ Make the Caramel Layer:
- While the base bakes, combine caramels and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
- Stir constantly until smooth and fully melted.
3️⃣ Layer It Up:
- Pour the warm caramel evenly over the baked base.
- Drop the remaining cake batter in spoonfuls over the caramel layer (don’t worry if it doesn’t cover it completely).
- Sprinkle the chocolate chips/chunks and chopped pecans evenly over the top.
4️⃣ Final Bake:
- Return to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the edges are set and the chocolate is melted and glossy.
⏳ Cool & Serve:
- Let the bars cool completely at room temperature or refrigerate for a firmer slice.
- Cut into squares and serve!
🧊 Storage Tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, keep refrigerated for up to a week.
- These bars also freeze well—just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
🍴 Variations & Tips:
- Nut-free option: Skip the pecans or sub with crushed pretzels for a salty crunch.
- Extra chocolatey: Add a layer of ganache after baking for a richer topping.
- Salted caramel twist: Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.
- Want it less sweet? Use dark chocolate chips or reduce caramel slightly.
✅ Why You’ll Love These Bars:
✔️ No-fuss recipe using a cake mix
✔️ Sweet, salty, gooey, crunchy—every texture you crave
✔️ Perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings
