Description
This indulgent Turtle Dessert features a buttery graham cracker crust topped with toasted pecans, rich caramel sauce, and a glossy chocolate ganache. Baked to perfection and chilled for a luscious finish, this layered treat is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and serving at gatherings.
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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the crust.
- Make the crust mixture: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter until evenly moistened.
- Bake the crust: Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish, then bake for 8 to 10 minutes. After baking, remove the crust and let it cool completely.
- Add the pecans: Once the crust is cooled, sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the surface to add a crunchy layer.
- Drizzle caramel sauce: Gently spread the caramel sauce over the pecan layer, ensuring an even coating across the top.
- Prepare chocolate ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Pour ganache over caramel: Pour the chocolate ganache evenly over the caramel and pecans, smoothing it out with a spatula for a neat finish.
- Chill the dessert: Refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 2 hours to allow the ganache to fully set.
- Serve: Cut the dessert into 12 squares and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy your decadent Turtle Dessert!
Notes
- You can use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience or homemade for a fresher taste.
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
- This dessert keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- For easier cutting, let the dessert sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Variations include adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a salted caramel flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
