Turtle Bars with Condensed Milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x9 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang.
2. Mix melted butter, granulated sugar, flour, and salt until a soft dough forms.
3. Press the dough firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan and bake for 15–18 minutes until the edges are pale gold.
4. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar, then stir in the sweetened condensed milk.
5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until smooth and glossy, then stir in the chopped pecans.
6. Pour the caramel mixture over the hot crust and spread evenly.
7. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the caramel is bubbling and deep mahogany in color.
8. While the bars are hot from the oven, sprinkle semisweet chocolate chips evenly across the top.
9. Let the chocolate sit for 5 minutes to soften, then use a spatula to spread it into a smooth layer.
10. Allow the bars to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before slicing.