Mom's Turtles® Treat

This sweet and gooey treat combines rich chocolate, caramel, and crunchy nuts for the perfect bite-sized indulgence. It’s a nostalgic favorite that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Cooking Advice

Use fresh, soft caramel for easy melting and a smooth texture.
Toast the pecans lightly to bring out their natural flavor.
Allow the chocolate to cool slightly before setting to avoid bloom and keep a shiny finish.

Ingredients 0/9

1 (9 inch) baked pie shell 12 individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk (such as Eagle Brand®), divided ¼ cup margarine 2 eggs 2 tablespoons water 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 pinch salt ½ cup chopped pecans

Why This Recipe Is So Tasty

This classic treat combines the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy. The gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts make every bite a delightful experience that feels like a warm hug from home.

Step 1

Warm your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the pie shell in a 9-inch pie dish and set it aside. In a small saucepan over low heat, gently melt the caramels with 1/3 cup of sweetened condensed milk, stirring occasionally until smooth—this should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Pour that caramel mixture into the bottom of your pie shell, spreading it out evenly.

Step 2

Melt the margarine and chocolate together over low heat, stirring until everything is smooth and combined. Take it off the heat. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, the rest of the sweetened condensed milk, water, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is nice and smooth. Stir the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture, then carefully pour this over the caramel layer in your pie shell. Sprinkle pecans evenly on top.

Step 3

Bake the pie for about 35 minutes, or until the center feels set when you gently shake the pan. Let it cool for an hour at room temperature before chilling it in the fridge to firm up completely. Enjoy!

207

people cooked this recipe

By Michael Davis

Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.

Serving Recommendations

Serve these treats as a sweet snack with coffee or tea. They also make a lovely homemade gift when wrapped in cellophane and tied with a ribbon.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and crunchy. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate but bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a frozen pie shell for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a frozen pie shell; just make sure to bake it according to package instructions before adding the filling.

What can I substitute for margarine if I don’t have any?

You can use an equal amount of butter or a neutral oil like vegetable oil as a substitute.

How do I know when the pie is fully baked?

The center should feel set and not jiggly when you gently shake the pan after about 35 minutes of baking.

Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance and keep it chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Is there a way to make this recipe nut-free?

Simply omit the chopped pecans or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.

Can I use dark or semi-sweet chocolate for melting?

Yes, either dark or semi-sweet chocolate works well; just melt it gently with the margarine.

How long should I chill the pie before serving?

Chill it for at least 2 hours or until it firms up completely for the best texture.

What should I do if the caramel mixture is too thick?

Heat it gently a bit longer and stir in a little extra sweetened condensed milk to reach a smooth consistency.