Caramel Pecan Turtle Brownies Recipe
Deliciously rich and gooey Turtle Brownies featuring a classic brownie base studded with crunchy pecans, topped with smooth caramel sauce, more pecans, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and an optional sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a perfect sweet-salty finish.
CourseDessert
CuisineAmerican
KeywordTurtle Brownies, brownies with caramel, pecan brownies, chocolate brownies, caramel sauce brownies, dessert recipe, easy brownies, caramel pecan chocolate brownies, Baking
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings9 servings
Calories360kcal
Ingredients
Brownie Base
- 1 box brownie mix plus ingredients needed to prepare them (Ghirardelli is recommended)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 3 tablespoons heavy whipping cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Toppings
- ½ cup chopped semi-sweet chocolate bar or chocolate chips
- Flaky sea salt for topping, optional
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350℉ and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the brownie mix according to the package instructions, then gently fold in ½ cup of the chopped pecans to add crunch.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake as the package directs. To avoid overbaking, set your timer for 5 minutes less than the recommended time, checking for doneness carefully.
- While the brownies bake, combine the caramel bits, heavy whipping cream, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave the caramel mixture for 1 minute, stir, then continue heating in 15 to 30 second increments, stirring after each until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- When brownies come out of the oven, use a fork or back of a wooden spoon to poke holes about two-thirds of the way through the brownies to help the caramel soak in.
- Slowly pour about ¾ of the caramel sauce over the brownies, allowing the sauce to fill the holes and soak into the batter.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of chopped pecans evenly over the caramel, then scatter the chopped semi-sweet chocolate or chips on top.
- Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top and optionally sprinkle flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty balance.
- Allow the brownies to cool completely before cutting them into squares for serving.
Notes
- Toast the pecans before adding for a richer, deeper flavor and added crunch.
- Using a metal baking pan is preferred for these brownies; if using glass or ceramic, expect a longer baking time.
- Do not overbake the brownies to maintain moistness and gooey texture.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 piece (assuming 9 pieces per pan) | Calories: 360kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 0g | Cholesterol: 25mg | Sodium: 150mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 28g