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Turtle Brownies

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close up shot of a Turtle Brownie
Homemade turtle brownies are an indulgent combination of rich cocoa, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans that make the perfect sweet treat.
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Table of Contents
  1. Turtle Brownies Ingredients
  2. Substitutions And Additions
  3. How To Make This Turtle Brownies Recipe
  4. How To Serve
  5. Storage
  6. Why We Love This Recipe
  7. Frequently Asked Questions
  8. More Recipes You’ll Love
  9. JUMP TO RECIPE
  10. Even More Recipes You’ll Love

Experience the ultimate brownie bliss with turtle brownies. With their luscious rich chocolate flavor, gooey caramel topping, and crunchy pecans, these brownies are a dessert lover’s dream come true.

close up shot of Turtle Brownies stacked on top of each other

Turtle Brownies Ingredients

Turtle Brownies raw ingredients that are labeled
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Turtle brownies bring together a delightful combination of ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. 

The sweet caramel sauce is the star of turtle brownies, adding a sweet layer of decadence. The pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the fudgy brownies.

Here’s what you’ll need:

  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
  • 1 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 1 cup of unsalted butter
  • 2½ cups of granulated sugar
  • 1¼ cups of all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided into 1 cup and ½ cup
  • 1½ cups of chopped pecans, divided into 1 cup and ½ cup
  • 1 cup of caramel sauce

PRO TIP:

Use a thick caramel sauce, specifically one that is thick at room temperature and hardens when refrigerated. Make a homemade caramel sauce thicker by cooking it for longer.

Substitutions And Additions

NUTS: You can substitute walnuts for pecans if you prefer a different nutty flavor in your caramel turtle brownies.

CARAMEL SAUCE: While the caramel sauce adds a luxurious touch to these turtle brownies, you can personalize them further by using a chocolate sauce or butterscotch sauce instead.

CHOCOLATE CHIPS: Customize your brownies by choosing your favorite type of chocolate chip.

Dark chocolate, white chocolate, or even peanut butter chips can be substituted for semi-sweet chocolate chips to add your preferred flavor profile to the mix.

VANILLA EXTRACT: While vanilla extract is a flavor enhancer, you can experiment with different extracts like almond, hazelnut, or even a dash of mint extract for a unique twist.

BUTTER: While unsalted butter is recommended in the recipe to control the saltiness, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand.

Just reduce the added salt in the recipe accordingly.

How To Make This Turtle Brownies Recipe

Creating a batch of scrumptious fudgy homemade brownies is easier than you might think. Let’s break down the steps:

STEP ONE: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Set aside.

STEP TWO: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine eggs and vanilla extract. Using the whisk attachment on the mixer, whisk the egg mixture for one to two minutes.

OUR RECIPE DEVELOPER SAYS

Make sure your eggs are at room temperature, which will help them mix better with the other ingredients.

STEP THREE: Add the cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to the mixture and whisk for an additional minute, scraping the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula.

cocoa, salt, and baking powder added to the mixture

STEP FOUR: Meanwhile, in a large bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Once melted, whisk the sugar into the hot butter.

STEP FIVE: Add the hot butter/sugar mixture to the stand mixer bowl and mix until combined.

hot butter/sugar mixture added to the stand mixer bowl

STEP SIX: Add the flour to the batter, mixing just until fully combined.

STEP SEVEN: Fold in one cup of chocolate chips and one cup of roughly chopped pecans.

chocolate chips and chopped pecans folded with the butter mixture

STEP EIGHT: Spread the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish.

STEP NINE: Bake brownies for 30 to 35 minutes, until just a few crumbs cling to a toothpick or knife when stuck in the center of the brownies.

Remove from the oven and allow to cool most of the way.

PRO TIP:

Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your brownies as the suggested baking time approaches.

baked brownies in a baking dish

STEP TEN: Spread the caramel sauce over the top of the brownies. Sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips and chopped pecans. 

PRO TIP:

If your caramel sauce is thinner or won’t thicken enough, you can slice the brownies and then drizzle caramel sauce and sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans when serving.

caramel sauce spread over the brownies

STEP ELEVEN: Place the pan of brownies in the refrigerator or freezer until the caramel drizzle has hardened across the top.

place pan in the freezer or refrigerator until caramel hardens

STEP TWELVE: Lift the brownies from the pan and slice them into squares on a cutting board.

How To Serve

When it comes to serving the best turtle brownies, there are several delicious options to explore.

For the ultimate indulgence, serve the brownies warm. Place a brownie on a plate and microwave it for a few seconds until the caramel and chocolate chips slightly melt.

Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.

Create a decadent dessert platter by serving turtle brownies alongside other sweet treats like chocolate cheesecake bites, coconut macaroons, and fresh berries.

Enjoy a slice of turtle brownie with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee. The rich chocolate, caramel, and pecan flavors of the brownie beautifully complement the warm, comforting notes of coffee, creating a perfect match.

Don’t forget to check out our turtle cupcakes and turtle pie for more caramel and chocolate goodness.

Storage

When it comes to storing your chocolate turtle brownies, here are some guidelines to follow:

MAKE AHEAD: These easy turtle brownies can be made ahead of time and stored for future enjoyment.

After baking and cooling the brownies, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

However, if you plan to add the caramel sauce and toppings, it’s best to wait until serving time to ensure the toppings stay fresh.

IN THE FRIDGE: If you prefer to store the brownies in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container or cover them tightly with plastic wrap.

The brownies can be refrigerated for up to five days.

However, keep in mind that the caramel sauce may harden when refrigerated, so allow the brownies to come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the gooey texture.

IN THE FREEZER: For longer-term storage, turtle brownies can be frozen. Ensure the brownies have completely cooled before freezing.

Wrap individual brownie squares in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month.

REHEATING: If you want to enjoy the brownies warm, you can reheat them using different methods.

In the microwave, heat a single brownie square for a few seconds until warm.

Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes. This will soften the caramel and create a delightful melty texture.

Why We Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why we absolutely love this turtle brownie recipe. Here are some of the key factors that make it a favorite:

DECADENT COMBINATION OF FLAVORS: The combination of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans creates a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Each bite offers a delightful balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and a touch of saltiness, resulting in a truly indulgent treat.

FUDGY AND MOIST TEXTURE: These brownies have a fudgy and moist texture that melts in your mouth. The addition of cocoa powder and the right balance of ingredients ensure that the brownies are tender, moist, and deeply satisfying with every bite.

EASY TO MAKE: Despite their impressive taste and appearance, turtle brownies are surprisingly easy to make. The recipe requires basic ingredients and simple techniques, making it accessible to both novice and experienced bakers alike.

overhead shot of Turtle Brownies cut into pieces on a cutting board

These heavenly turtle brownies are the epitome of chocolatey indulgence. With their rich cocoa flavor, gooey caramel topping, and crunchy pecans, they offer a delectable combination of tastes and textures that are hard to resist. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I double the recipe to make a larger batch?

You can double the ingredients to make a larger batch of turtle brownies. Ensure you use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly. Keep an eye on the brownies while baking to ensure they are cooked through.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making it from scratch?

If you’re short on time or prefer the convenience, you can use store-bought caramel sauce. Look for a thick caramel sauce that will hold its shape when added to the brownies.

Can I freeze these homemade brownies with the caramel sauce and toppings?

It’s best to freeze the brownies without the caramel sauce and toppings. The caramel sauce may become too hard in the freezer and lose its gooey texture. Add the caramel sauce and toppings after thawing the brownies.

Can I make this turtle brownie recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make gluten-free turtle brownies by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour. Ensure that the other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

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close up shot of a Turtle Brownie

Turtle Brownies

5 from 1 vote
Homemade turtle brownies are an indulgent combination of rich cocoa, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans that make the perfect sweet treat.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings 24

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • cups granulated sugar
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • cups semi-sweet chocolate chips, divided into 1 cup and ½ cup
  • cups chopped pecans, divided into 1 cup and ½ cup
  • 1 cup caramel sauce

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish and line it with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine eggs and vanilla extract. Using the whisk attachment on the mixer, whisk the egg mixture for 1 to 2 minutes.
  • Add the cocoa powder, salt, and baking powder to the mixture and whisk for an additional minute, scraping the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula.
  • Meanwhile, in a large bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Once melted, whisk the sugar into the hot butter.
  • Add the hot butter/sugar mixture to the stand mixer bowl and mix until combined.
  • Add the flour to the batter, mixing just until fully combined.
  • Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips and 1 cup of roughly chopped pecans.
  • Spread the brownie batter into the prepared baking dish.
  • Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until just a few crumbs cling to a toothpick/knife when stuck in the center of the brownies. Remove from the oven and allow to cool most of the way.
  • Spread the caramel sauce over the top of the brownies. Sprinkle with the remaining chocolate chips and chopped pecans.
  • Place the pan of brownies in the refrigerator or freezer until the caramel has hardened across the top.
  • Lift the brownies from the pan and slice them into squares.

Notes

  • Use a thick caramel sauce, specifically one that is thick at room temperature and hardens when refrigerated. Make a homemade caramel sauce thicker by cooking it for longer.
  • Make sure your eggs are at room temperature, which will help them mix better with the other ingredients.
  • Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your brownies as the suggested baking time approaches.
  • If your caramel sauce is thinner or won’t thicken enough, you can slice the brownies and then drizzle caramel sauce and sprinkle with chocolate chips and pecans when serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 325kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.3g | Cholesterol: 52mg | Sodium: 144mg | Potassium: 191mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 31g | Vitamin A: 299IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 2mg
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Proudly Prepared by the Spaceships Kitchen

This recipe was developed, tested, cooked and photographed by the Spaceships Kitchen. From our dinner table to yours, we hope you think it's out of this world!

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  1. Mary Spence says

    5 stars
    These brownies are truly exceptional. It turned out worthy of any bakery and trust me, I’m super picky. I’d be proud to serve this to anyone at any occasion.

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