Turtle Cookies

There’s something magical about baking cookies that transports me back to my childhood, and the first batch I ever made were these delightful Turtle Cookies. The combination of chewy caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans was simply irresistible. Every holiday season, I reunited with this recipe, sharing the joy with family and friends. I remember how we’d huddle around the kitchen, laughter filling the air as the sweet aroma wafted through the house. Those golden moments spent together creating something delicious are memories I cherish, and every bite of these cookies brings me back to those times. With Turtle Cookies, not only do you get a taste of nostalgia, but you also create new memories with every batch you bake. They’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering.

Ingredients to Make Turtle Cookies

The ingredients for Turtle Cookies come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a critical role, ensuring the final cookie is both satisfying and indulgent. The unsalted butter is essential for that rich, creamy base, while the combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar adds depth and sweetness. The chocolate chips and pecans introduce delightful textures, making every bite an experience.

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature (1 stick) – This provides the rich base for the cookies.
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar – Adds the right amount of sweetness and texture.
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Helps with the dough consistency and moisture.
• 1 tablespoon molasses – Enhances the flavor profile with a deep, rich taste.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances all the flavors.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the structure of the cookies.
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder – Provides the chocolate flavor and color.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips – Adds chocolatey goodness.
• 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped – Offers a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• 14 soft caramel candies (I use Kraft) – The sweet surprise at the center of each cookie.
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream – Used to melt the caramels smoothly.
• 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips or baking chocolate – For drizzling on top.
• 1 teaspoon shortening – Helps achieve a smooth drizzle consistency.

Making This Turtle Cookies

Creating Turtle Cookies is an enjoyable and fulfilling process. From mixing the ingredients to watching them bake to perfection in the oven, each step brings a sense of excitement. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure your cookies turn out deliciously every time.

1. In a large bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, and salt; set aside. This combination adds the rich chocolatey flavor to your cookies, and the salt will enhance the sweetness.
2. In a hand or stand mixer, beat unsalted butter until creamy. This will take about 1 to 2 minutes. When it’s light and fluffy, add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 minutes.
3. Add in the egg, milk, molasses, and vanilla extract. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated, creating a creamy batter.
4. Reduce the mixer speed to low and gradually add in the flour mixture until just combined. You want to avoid over-mixing here, as it can affect the texture of your cookies.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. Chilling the dough is crucial as it helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
6. After 2 hours, remove the dough from the refrigerator. If your dough feels too hard to work with, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before proceeding.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (about 175°C). Line baking sheets with nonstick mats or parchment paper; this will make transferring the cookies easier and ensure they don’t stick.
8. In a small bowl, mix together the mini chocolate chips and pecans. These will be rolled into the cookie dough for an added crunch and flavor.
9. Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Then, roll each ball in the chocolate chips/pecans mixture, pressing them firmly into the dough. This step adds a nice texture to the outside of your cookies.
10. Place 10 balls per baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread without sticking to each other while they bake.
11. Using a ½ teaspoon measuring spoon, make a slight indentation in the center of each dough ball. This will be where you add the caramel filling later.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, let them cool on the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This allows the cookies to set properly.
13. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the caramel filling. In a small bowl, microwave the soft caramel candies and heavy cream together until smooth, stirring every 30 seconds until melted, which should take about 1 to 2 minutes.
14. Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of the caramel mixture once the cookies have cooled slightly.
15. To make the chocolate drizzle, microwave the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a small bowl on 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until melted. Stir in shortening for a smoother texture.
16. Transfer the melted chocolate to a Ziploc bag, snip off a small corner, and drizzle over the cookies. Allow the drizzle to set before serving.

How to Switch It Up

There are countless ways to enjoy Turtle Cookies. Whether you want to add a twist or just try something new, here are some great ideas:

• Storage: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. You can also store them in the fridge for longer freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Just roll into balls and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
• Variations: Experiment with different nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to create a different flavor profile.
• Chocolate options: Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a richer taste.
• Caramel alternatives: Try using different types of caramel or even a salted caramel for a unique twist.
• Drizzle styles: Instead of chocolate, try a peanut butter drizzle for an extra layer of flavor.

Pairing Suggestions for Turtle Cookies

When it comes to enjoying Turtle Cookies, pairing them with the right beverages or side dishes can enhance your experience. Here are some ideas:

• Milk: A classic pairing! The rich flavor of Turtle Cookies is perfectly complemented by a cold glass of milk.
• Coffee: For an afternoon delight, serve your cookies with a strong cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
• Tea: If you prefer something lighter, a cup of herbal tea can also pair well with these cookies, providing a soothing complement.
• Ice cream: Serve warm Turtle Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a decadent dessert.
• Fruit sides: Fresh fruit, like strawberries or raspberries, can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.
• Occasions: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, birthday parties, or simply as an indulgent treat any time of the year.

FAQ

Conclusion

Turtle Cookies bring together the perfect balance of flavors and textures, offering a sweet treat that’s hard to resist. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dessert, these cookies are sure to impress everyone. I encourage you to gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try; you won’t regret it!

Turtle Cookies

The ultimate treat for cookie lovers, Turtle Cookies combine rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans in a deliciously chewy cookie. Perfect for any occasion, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 30 cookies

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Wooden Spoon
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature (1 stick)
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar packed
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 tablespoon molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 cup pecans roughly chopped
• 14 soft caramel candies (I use Kraft)
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 4 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips or baking chocolate
• 1 teaspoon shortening

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, mix together flour, cocoa powder, and salt; set aside.
• In a hand or stand mixer, beat unsalted butter until creamy. Add granulated sugar and light brown sugar, and beat until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
• Add egg, milk, molasses, and vanilla extract; mix until incorporated.
• Reduce speed to low and add flour mixture until just combined.
• Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. After 2 hours, remove dough from the refrigerator.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with nonstick mats or parchment; set aside.
• Mix together mini chocolate chips and pecans in a small bowl.
• Roll chilled dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in chocolate chips/pecans, pressing them firmly into the dough.
• Place 10 balls per baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
• Using a ½ teaspoon measuring spoon, make a slight indentation in the center of each dough ball.
• Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool on the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
• While cookies are cooling, prepare the caramel filling by microwaving soft caramel candies and heavy cream together in a small bowl until smooth, stirring every 30 seconds until melted.
• Fill each indentation with about ½ teaspoon of the caramel.
• To make the chocolate drizzle, microwave semi-sweet chocolate chips in a small bowl on 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until melted. Stir in shortening.
• Transfer chocolate to a Ziploc bag, snip off a small corner, and drizzle over cookies.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Keyword baking cookies, chocolate caramel cookies, easy cookie recipe, Turtle Cookies recipe

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!