Turtles
Turtles are sweet, crunchy confections featuring a delightful combination of caramel, nuts, and chocolate. Perfect for gift-giving or satisfying a sweet tooth, they offer rich caramel flavor paired with toasted nuts and smooth chocolate coating, making them a crowd-pleasing treat for both casual snacking and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the draft caramel over boiling water.
- Add 2 to 16 ounces of coarsely chopped nuts (English walnuts, pecans, peanuts) and mix well.
- Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto buttered wax paper.
- Allow the candies to cool.
- Dip the cooled candies into melted chocolate.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother caramel, ensure the water and margarine are well combined before melting. If you prefer a nut-free version, consider using crispy rice cereal for crunch. Experiment with different nuts based on your preference; pecans and walnuts work particularly well. To save time, use store-bought chocolate chips instead of melting chocolate from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
These turtle candies make a delightful treat on their own but can also be served alongside coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or in a dessert platter with other treats like Brandon'S Brownie Dessert. For a festive touch, consider packaging them in decorative boxes as gifts.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to two weeks. To bring them back to their original texture, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turtles contains roughly 27 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 dipping?
Yes, you can use white chocolate or dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate for dipping. Each type offers a unique flavor profile that can enhance the overall taste of the turtles. Just be sure to melt the chocolate gently to avoid burning it.
How can I make these turtles vegan?
To make vegan turtles, substitute the draft caramel with a vegan caramel sauce and replace the margarine with coconut oil. Ensure the chocolate used for dipping is also dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan version of this classic treat.
What nuts work best in this recipe?
Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices for turtle candies due to their rich flavor and texture. However, you can also use roasted peanuts or even macadamia nuts for a more unique twist. Just be sure to chop them coarsely for the best results.
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).