Description
This Turtle Dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with toasted pecans, rich caramel sauce, and a smooth chocolate ganache. A deliciously decadent treat perfect for any occasion, combining crunchy, sweet, and creamy layers into one delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Chocolate Ganache
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Make the crust: In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until all crumbs are evenly moistened, forming a uniform mixture.
- Bake the crust: Press the crust mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish. Bake for 8-10 minutes until set and slightly golden. Remove from oven and cool completely.
- Add pecans: Evenly sprinkle the toasted pecans over the cooled crust, distributing them to cover the surface well.
- Drizzle caramel: Pour the caramel sauce over the pecans and gently spread it to cover the nuts evenly, creating a sweet layer.
- Prepare ganache: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it starts to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Assemble dessert: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the caramel and pecan layer. Smooth the top gently with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Chill and set: Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours, allowing it to fully set and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Cut into 12 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For best results, make sure the crust is completely cooled before adding pecans and caramel to avoid melting the caramel.
- Use high-quality caramel sauce or make your own for a richer flavor.
- Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a more intense chocolate flavor.
- Keep the dessert refrigerated if not serving immediately to ensure the ganache remains set.
