Patsy Lawton'S Turtles
Decadent caramel and pecan turtles coated in smooth melted chocolate, perfect for sharing or gifting. Rich, nutty, and sweet with irresistible flavor combination.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt caramels and canned milk in a double boiler over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Add chopped pecans to the caramel mixture and stir to combine.
- Drop teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto a cookie sheet sprayed well with Pam or non-stick spray.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if desired.
- Dip each caramel pecan cluster into melted chocolate to coat completely.
- Allow chocolate to set before serving or storing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother caramel mixture, ensure the caramels are fully melted before adding the pecans. If you don't have canned milk, you can substitute with heavy cream or regular milk, but adjust the quantity to maintain the desired consistency. Consider adding a pinch of sea salt to enhance flavor and use dark chocolate for a richer taste. These treats are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to a dessert table.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful turtles as a sweet treat at gatherings or alongside coffee for a cozy dessert experience. They pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, arrange them on a platter with other sweets like cookies and candies, making them a highlight alongside offerings like Party Candy.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover turtles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor. Avoid stacking the turtles directly on top of each other to prevent them from sticking together, using parchment paper between layers instead.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Patsy Lawton'S Turtles contains roughly 1693 calories, with 18g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 123g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (69% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (66% of the Daily Value), and protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 18g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! While pecans add a unique flavor, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even peanuts if you prefer. Just chop them roughly to maintain a good texture in the turtles. Each nut will bring its own flavor profile, making the treat versatile.
What type of chocolate should I use for dipping?
You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate depending on your preference. Dark chocolate offers a nice contrast to the sweetness of the caramel, while milk chocolate provides a classic taste. If you're feeling adventurous, try using flavored chocolates like mint or orange for a unique twist.
Can I make these turtles ahead of time?
Yes, these turtles can be made in advance! Prepare them and store in an airtight container as mentioned. They actually taste great after sitting for a day or two, as the flavors meld together. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
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).