In honor of Father’s Day, I’m sharing this recipe that is one of my father’s favorites. Chocolate turtles have always been a staple in my family and these brownies are the perfect treat to share the love.

Ingredients

• 1 cup butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup baking cocoa
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Topping

• 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
• 3/4 cup baking cocoa
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1/3 cup 2% milk
• 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 12 caramels
• 1 tablespoon heavy whipping cream

Directions

Step 1

In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add vanilla. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating well after each addition. Combine the cocoa, flour, baking powder and salt; gradually add to butter mixture.

Step 2

Spread into a greased 13×9-in. baking pan. Bake at 350° for 23-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean (do not overbake). Cool on a wire rack.

Step 3

In a large bowl, beat the confectioners’ sugar, cocoa, butter, milk and vanilla until fluffy. Frost brownies. Sprinkle with pecans. Refrigerate at least 1 hour.

Step 4

In a microwave, melt caramels with cream; stir until smooth. Drizzle over brownies.