Turtle Bark Recipe

Introduction

Turtle Bark is a deliciously rich treat combining smooth chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans. This easy no-bake recipe creates a perfect homemade candy that’s great for gifting or snacking. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this classic dessert anytime.

Ingredients

• 1 package chocolate almond bark (20-24 oz)
• 25 caramel squares (about 1 1/4 cup caramel bits)
• 1-2 Tbsp water or heavy cream
• Whole pecans (as many as desired, some chopped)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, parchment paper, or wax paper.
2. Step 2: Roughly chop the almond bark into smaller pieces and place them in a glass bowl for quicker melting.
3. Step 3: Microwave the chocolate in the glass bowl on 50% power for 3 minutes, then stir. Continue microwaving at 50% power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring until completely melted. Add additional 30-second intervals if necessary.
4. Step 4: Place the caramel squares in a microwave-safe bowl, add 1-2 tablespoons of water or heavy cream, and microwave at 50% power for 1 minute. Stir and microwave an additional minute, then continue in 30-second intervals until caramel is melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Reserve about 1/4 cup of melted chocolate to use for drizzling later.
6. Step 6: Pour the remaining melted chocolate onto the lined baking sheet and spread it smooth with a spatula. Drop dollops of caramel evenly over the chocolate using a spoon or small cookie scoop. Swirl the caramel and chocolate together gently with a butter knife or spatula. Sprinkle chopped and whole pecans over the surface. Drizzle the reserved chocolate on top for a decorative finish.
7. Step 7: Allow the bark to harden at room temperature for 2-3 hours. Once firm, cut into pieces using a sharp knife.

Tips & Variations

• Use heavy cream instead of water for a richer caramel texture.
• Try adding sea salt flakes on top for a sweet and salty twist.
• Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for different nutty flavors.
• Store the bark in the refrigerator to speed up the hardening process on warm days.

Storage

Store Turtle Bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 month. To soften before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Avoid storing in humid places to prevent chocolate from blooming.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use dark or milk chocolate almond bark instead of regular?

Yes, both dark and milk chocolate almond bark work well and offer different flavor profiles. Choose according to your taste preference.

What is the best way to melt the chocolate and caramel without burning?

Melting at 50% microwave power in short intervals and stirring frequently will help prevent burning and ensure smooth, even melting.

Turtle Bark Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 68 reviews

This Turtle Bark recipe is a deliciously rich treat combining silky melted chocolate almond bark, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans. It’s an easy no-bake dessert that swirls smooth chocolate and caramel together then sets into a beautiful bark perfect for gifting or snacking. The layers of chocolate, caramel, and nuts create a classic turtle flavor that’s both indulgent and visually appealing.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: About 24 pieces 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chocolate Mixture

• 1 package chocolate almond bark (20–24 oz)

Caramel Mixture

• 25 caramel squares (about 1 1/4 cups caramel bits)
• 1–2 Tbsp water or heavy cream

Toppings

• Whole pecans (as many as desired, some chopped)

Instructions

1. Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat, parchment paper, or wax paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. Melt the chocolate: Roughly chop the almond bark for quicker melting and place in a glass bowl. Microwave on 50% power for 3 minutes, stir, then continue microwaving for 1-2 more minutes on 50% power. Stir continuously until fully melted, adding 30-second bursts as needed.
3. Melt the caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel squares with 1-2 tablespoons of water or heavy cream. Microwave at 50% power for 1 minute, stir, then microwave for additional 1 minute intervals, stirring in between, until the caramel is smooth and melted.
4. Reserve chocolate for drizzling: Set aside about 1/4 cup of the melted chocolate to drizzle on top later.
5. Spread chocolate base: Pour the remaining melted chocolate onto the lined baking sheet and spread evenly using a spatula to form the bark base.
6. Add caramel and pecans: Drop spoonfuls or small scoops of the melted caramel over the chocolate base. Swirl the caramel and chocolate lightly together using a butter knife or spatula to create a marbled effect. Sprinkle chopped and whole pecans evenly over the top.
7. Drizzle remaining chocolate: Use a spoon to drizzle the reserved melted chocolate over the top of the bark for added decoration and flavor.
8. Harden the bark: Allow the bark to set at room temperature for 2-3 hours until completely hardened.
9. Cut and serve: Once hardened, use a sharp knife to cut the bark into pieces of desired size. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

• Use a silicone baking mat or parchment paper to prevent the bark from sticking.
• Microwave heating times may vary; melt in short bursts and stir often to avoid burning the chocolate or caramel.
• You can substitute heavy cream with water for melting caramel, but cream creates a richer texture.
• Store the finished bark in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate to extend freshness.
• For extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the finished bark before it hardens.

Keywords: Turtle Bark, chocolate almond bark, caramel bark, pecan chocolate bark, easy no bake dessert, caramel chocolate candy