Walnut Turtles
Walnut Turtles are rich, chewy confections combining caramel, chocolate, and crunchy walnuts, perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and impressing guests with homemade candies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place caramels in the top of a double boiler with the margarine.
- Set over boiling water and heat until completely melted, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and add vanilla; stir well.
- Add walnuts and stir to coat.
- Drop by teaspoonfuls onto wax paper or a greased surface.
- Melt Crisco and chocolate chips over hot, not boiling, water.
- Spread the melted chocolate and Crisco mixture over the candies.
- Allow to set before removing or serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using pecans instead of walnuts. If you're looking to make this recipe vegan, substitute margarine with a plant-based butter and use dairy-free chocolate chips. To achieve a smoother caramel, heat it slowly and stir continuously to prevent burning. If you have leftover chocolate, drizzle it over popcorn for a tasty snack, perfect alongside T.V. Tidbits.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful treats as a dessert after a festive dinner or as a sweet snack during movie nights. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For an indulgent twist, try serving alongside Key Lime Sherbet for a refreshing contrast. These candies also make great homemade gifts during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Walnut Turtles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer preservation, refrigerate them, which can extend their freshness to about two weeks. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply microwave for a few seconds until slightly softened, taking care not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Turtles contains roughly 90 calories, with 1g protein, 5g 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 different nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While walnuts are traditional, feel free to experiment with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings its unique flavor and texture, allowing you to customize the Walnut Turtles to your preference.
How can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the Walnut Turtles a few days in advance. Once they are made, simply store them in an airtight container. This makes them a great option for parties or gatherings, allowing you to focus on other dishes like Cranberry Glazed Pork.
What can I do if the chocolate doesn't melt smoothly?
If your chocolate doesn't melt smoothly, it may be due to overheating or moisture. Ensure you're using low heat and a dry bowl. If it seizes, you can add a small amount of vegetable oil to help smooth it out. This will help achieve a perfect coating for your candies.
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).