1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
2. Make the Crust: a. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, sugar, and salt. b. Press the mixture into the bottom of the prepared pan to form an even crust. c. Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
3. Prepare Turtle Fudge Layer: a. In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, chocolate chips, and butter over medium heat. Stir until melted and smooth. b. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. c. Pour the fudge mixture over the baked crust and spread it evenly.
4. Make Caramel Layer: a. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth. b. Stir in salt to taste. c. Pour the caramel over the fudge layer, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake and Cool:
- Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-18 minutes or until the edges are set.
- Allow the bars to cool in the pan at room temperature, then refrigerate until fully set.
6. Cut and Serve:
- Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Place them on a cutting board and cut into squares or bars.
7. Optional: Sprinkle with Sea Salt:
- If desired, sprinkle the tops of the bars with sea salt flakes for a touch of saltiness.
8. Enjoy:
- Enjoy your Salted Caramel Turtle Fudge Bars!
These bars are rich, decadent, and perfect for satisfying your sweet and salty cravings. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.