Buckeye Turtle Brownies (Seriously GOOD)

Step 1

Bake your 9X13 brownie mix or recipe according to directions. If you are using my favorite homemade gluten-free brownie recipe, do not mix in the last cup of chocolate chips before baking. Cool brownies completely.

Step 2

In a microwave safe bowl place caramels and milk and heat on high for about 1 1/2 - 2 minutes**, stopping to stir intermittently. Remove immediately just after caramels are almost smooth. Pour in chopped pecans, mix, and scoop in spoonfuls over brownies immediately. TIP: Use a piece of waxed paper greased with cooking spray to press down and spread. Don't worry if it doesn't cover brownies completely, you'll be covering it with other layers.

Step 3

For the peanut butter topping*, beat all ingredients together in a medium bowl until well mixed (will be very thick). Scoop spoonfuls of peanut butter topping all over turtle topping. Press and spread the peanut butter topping gently using fingers.

Step 4

In another microwave safe bowl place chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Melt on high for about 1 minute**, stirring occasionally until chocolate is about melted and smooth. Pour over peanut butter layer and smooth with offset spatula. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt or fleur de sel, if desired.