Microwave Caramel Turtles
Creamy, sweet caramel turtles with crunchy pecans and smooth chocolate coating make an indulgent treat perfect for sharing or gifting during special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place caramels, evaporated milk, and butter in a 1-quart microwave-safe measuring cup.
- Heat in microwave on Medium-high for 4 to 5 minutes or until melted, stirring occasionally.
- Spray a cookie sheet with nonstick spray.
- Arrange pecan halves in groups of three on the prepared sheet.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of melted caramel over each group of pecans to cover.
- Refrigerate, uncovered, for 30 minutes to set.
- Place chocolate morsels in a 2-quart microwave-safe measuring cup.
- Microwave on Medium-high for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every 2 minutes until melted and smooth.
- Spoon melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecans.
- Allow to cool completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate in a covered container until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets. If you're short on time, pre-made caramel sauce can be used instead of melting caramels; just adjust the amount of evaporated milk accordingly. You can substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans if desired, or even mix nuts for a unique taste.
Serving Suggestions
These Microwave Caramel Turtles make a delightful sweet treat for gatherings or as a dessert. They pair beautifully with Cousin Ella Bess' Coffee Cake for a dessert spread. Consider serving them alongside a warm beverage like coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack, or package them as homemade gifts for friends and family.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you need to reheat them, microwave in short intervals at low power, just until slightly warm, to maintain the chocolate's texture without melting it completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Caramel Turtles contains roughly 286 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 21g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of chocolate for this recipe?
Yes, you can use dark chocolate, white chocolate, or any flavored chocolate morsels you prefer. Just be aware that different chocolates may alter the sweetness and overall flavor profile of the turtles.
How can I make these turtles more festive?
To make your turtles more festive, consider drizzling colored melting chocolate over the top or adding holiday-themed sprinkles after pouring the chocolate. They make a great addition to holiday treat trays or as gifts.
Can I freeze these caramel turtles?
Yes, you can freeze these turtles. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).