Turtle Brownies

Introduction

Turtle brownies are an indulgent twist on classic brownies. Inspired by the famous “Turtle” candies (caramel, chocolate, and pecans), these brownies are layered with buttery caramel, topped with crunchy nuts, and drizzled with chocolate. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or anytime you crave a decadent dessert!

Ingredients (Big Batch – about 24 brownies)

For the Brownie Base:

• 2 cups (4 sticks) unsalted butter
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 8 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

For the Caramel Layer:

• 2 (14 oz) bags of soft caramel candies (about 4 ½ cups), unwrapped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 2 cups pecan halves (toasted if preferred)
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (melted for drizzle)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Brownie Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 13×18-inch sheet pan (or 2 9×13 pans) with parchment paper.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and whisk in sugar until smooth.
3. Add eggs, one at a time, whisking well. Stir in vanilla.
4. Sift cocoa, flour, and salt together, then fold into wet mixture.
5. Stir in chocolate chips. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, melt caramels with heavy cream. Stir until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Spread half the brownie batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 15 minutes.
2. Remove from oven and carefully pour the caramel sauce over the brownie layer.
3. Sprinkle pecans evenly across the caramel.
4. Spread the remaining brownie batter gently on top. (Tip: Drop spoonfuls and spread with an offset spatula.)

Step 4: Bake

• Return to oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is set but still fudgy.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

1. Let brownies cool completely.
2. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top.
3. Chill for 1 hour before cutting into large squares.

Methods

• Double Boiler Method: If you don’t want to burn caramel or chocolate, melt them using a double boiler.
• Toasting Pecans: Lightly toast pecans in a skillet for 5 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Cooling Before Cutting: Refrigerating makes cutting neat squares much easier.

History

The “Turtle” candy originated in the U.S. in 1918, created by DeMet’s Candy Company. The combination of caramel, pecans, and chocolate resembled the shape of a turtle—hence the name. Over the years, bakers adapted the concept into cookies, cakes, and brownies.

Benefits

• Pecans: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
• Chocolate: Mood-boosting and full of flavonoids.
• Caramel & Brownie combo: A satisfying energy boost and a classic comfort treat.

Formation

These brownies form three delicious layers: a fudgy base, gooey caramel with pecans in the middle, and a rich chocolate topping.

Nutrition (per brownie, approx. out of 24)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 23g
• Carbs: 52g
• Protein: 5g

Lovers of Turtle Brownies

• Chocolate Lovers: Enjoy the deep cocoa richness.
• Nut Lovers: The crunch of pecans adds texture.
• Caramel Lovers: Sticky, gooey layers satisfy the sweet tooth.

Conclusion

Turtle brownies are the ultimate indulgence, combining chewy brownie layers, silky caramel, crunchy pecans, and a chocolate drizzle. A big-batch crowd-pleaser, they make holidays and celebrations extra special.