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To make Chocolate Covered Pretzel Turtles, you'll need a few simple ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating this sweet treat. Here’s the list: - 2 cups mini pretzels - 1 cup pecan halves - 1 cup soft caramel candies (unwrapped) - 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips - 1 tablespoon coconut oil - Sea salt for sprinkling (optional) Each ingredient adds flavor and texture. The mini pretzels give a nice crunch. Pecans add a rich, nutty taste. Caramel brings sweetness and a chewy texture. The chocolate coating makes everything even better. Coconut oil helps the chocolate melt smoothly. You can sprinkle sea salt for a tasty contrast. This mix of ingredients ensures you have a delightful snack. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for making soft caramel turtles. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This helps the turtles not stick when they cool. Next, arrange your mini pretzels on the baking sheet. Make sure they sit in a single layer. Then, place a pecan half on each pretzel. The pecans add a nice crunch and great flavor. To melt the caramel, grab a microwave-safe bowl. Add the unwrapped soft caramel candies. Heat them in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time. Stir after each interval until the caramel is smooth. Once ready, drizzle or spoon a small amount of caramel over each pretzel and pecan. This will bind everything together. Now, bake the assembly in the oven for about 5-7 minutes. Look for the caramel to become slightly bubbly. After baking, let them cool for about 5 minutes on the sheet. This is where the magic happens. The caramel firms up, making it easier to dip in chocolate later! To melt caramel, use a microwave-safe bowl. Place the soft caramel candies in the bowl. Heat them in 30-second bursts. Stir after each burst. This helps to avoid hot spots. You want the caramel smooth, not burnt. If it feels too thick, add a tiny bit of water. This will make it easier to drizzle. First, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. This mix helps the chocolate coat better. When dipping, use a fork for a clean finish. Let excess chocolate drip back into the bowl. This gives you a nice, even layer. After coating, place your turtles on parchment paper. Don't crowd them; give each turtle space. Let them cool at room temperature first. Then, place them in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps the chocolate set nicely. If you want a crunchy texture, let them cool fully before serving. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your caramel and chocolate are fresh for the best flavor and texture. Don't Overheat the Chocolate: Melt the chocolate slowly to avoid burning, which can create a gritty texture. Adjust Salt to Taste: Experiment with the amount of sea salt you sprinkle on top for a sweeter or saltier flavor profile. Store Properly: Keep the pretzel turtles in an airtight container to maintain their crunch and freshness. {{image_2}} You can change the nuts in your pretzel turtles. Pecans are great, but walnuts work well too. Almonds add a nice crunch. You might even try cashews for a different taste. Each nut gives a unique flavor and texture. Experiment with what you like best! Making these turtles gluten-free is easy. Just use gluten-free pretzels. For a vegan option, replace the caramel with vegan caramel candies. You can also swap regular chocolate for dairy-free chocolate chips. This way, everyone can enjoy this treat without worry. You can make your turtles even better with add-ins. Try drizzling white chocolate on top for a sweet twist. Crushed pretzels or nuts can add crunch. You can also sprinkle sea salt for a nice salty touch. Each addition can change the flavor and make it special! You can store chocolate-covered pretzel turtles in an airtight container. Place layers of parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Keep the container in a cool, dry place. This will keep them fresh and tasty. If you want to save some for later, you can freeze them. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped turtles in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Chocolate-covered pretzel turtles stay fresh for about one week at room temperature. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to two weeks. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating. This makes them taste best! Yes, you can use different types of pretzels. You can choose regular pretzels or chocolate-covered ones. The mini pretzels work best for bite-sized treats. However, larger pretzels can give a unique twist. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the toppings. You know the caramel is done when it is slightly bubbly. After baking for 5-7 minutes, check for bubbles. The caramel should look smooth and shiny. Let it cool for a few minutes before adding chocolate. This step helps keep the turtles from becoming too soft. Absolutely! These treats make great gifts. They look lovely on a plate or in a jar. You can even wrap them in clear bags with a ribbon. Friends and family will love receiving these sweet, crunchy bites. They are perfect for holidays or special occasions. You now know how to make delicious chocolate-covered pretzel turtles. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can even try different nuts or make it gluten-free. These treats are fun to make and share. Store them well so they last longer. Remember, they also make great gifts! Enjoy your sweet creations and impress your friends and family with this simple yet tasty snack.

Chocolate Covered Pretzel Turtles

Delicious chocolate-covered pretzels topped with caramel and pecans.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups mini pretzels
  • 1 cup pecan halves
  • 1 cup soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil
  • to taste optional sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Arrange the mini pretzels on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
  • Place a pecan half on top of each pretzel.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the caramel candies in the microwave for 30 seconds intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
  • Using a teaspoon, drizzle or spoon a small amount of melted caramel over each pretzel and pecan combination, ensuring it holds everything together.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, until the caramel is slightly bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 5 minutes.
  • While the pretzel turtles cool, melt the chocolate chips and coconut oil together in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
  • Once cooled, dip each turtle into the melted chocolate, fully coating the caramel and letting any excess chocolate drip off.
  • Place the chocolate-coated turtles back onto the parchment paper. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each before the chocolate sets.
  • Refrigerate for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate is firm.

Notes

Optional to sprinkle sea salt for added flavor.
Keyword chocolate, dessert, pretzels, turtles