Turtle Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Turtle Cookies combine everything you love about the classic turtle candy—rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans—into a soft, indulgent cookie. Perfect for holiday trays, bake sales, or any time you crave a decadent treat, these cookies are easy to make and sure to impress!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
unsweetened cocoa powder
baking powder
salt
unsalted butter (softened)
granulated sugar
brown sugar
egg
milk
vanilla extract
chopped pecans
soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
heavy cream
semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for drizzle)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.

Scoop dough and roll into balls, then roll each ball in chopped pecans to coat. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indent in the center of each cookie.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, then let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

Meanwhile, melt the caramels with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth. Spoon a little caramel into the center of each cookie.

Drizzle with melted chocolate chips if desired. Let set before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 24 cookies.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Cooling and assembling time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty finish.
Add a chocolate kiss instead of caramel for a twist.
Swap pecans for chopped walnuts if you prefer.

storage/reheating

Store Turtle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 2 months.
Serve at room temperature—no reheating needed.

FAQs

Why are they called Turtle Cookies?
They’re inspired by Turtle candies, which combine chocolate, caramel, and pecans.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, but thicker caramel works best to stay in the cookie centers.

Do I have to toast the pecans?
It’s optional, but toasting enhances their nutty flavor.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely—chill the dough for up to 2 days before baking.

Do they freeze well?
Yes! Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Turtle Cookies are the perfect blend of chocolate, caramel, and pecans in a soft, decadent cookie form. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re a sweet treat that brings all the classic Turtle candy flavors into every bite.

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