Extra Pecan Caramel Turtle Cookies: A Perfect Sweet Treat for Every Occasion

Extra Pecan Caramel Turtle Cookies: A Perfect Sweet Treat for Every Occasion

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Introduction

Sometimes, you come across a recipe that takes something familiar and turns it into something extraordinary. That’s exactly what these Extra Pecan Caramel Turtle Cookies do. Imagine the irresistible combination of caramel, chocolate, and pecans—flavors that make up the beloved Turtle candy, but in cookie form. What could be better than a classic chocolate chip cookie? One that’s loaded with caramel, pecans, and gooey chocolate filling.

These cookies are a dessert lover’s dream, with layers of flavor that make every bite a decadent experience. The soft cookie base is studded with rich semi-sweet chocolate chips and crunchy pecans, while the caramel filling creates a gooey surprise in the center. Topped with a crunchy pecan half and optional chocolate drizzle, these cookies are a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, holiday treat, or just to indulge your sweet tooth, these cookies will definitely be the star of the show.

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Extra Pecan Caramel Turtle Cookies

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 cup packed brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Caramel Filling

• 20 soft caramel candies, unwrapped

• 2 tbsp heavy cream

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup pecan halves

• 1/2 cup chocolate chips, melted (optional drizzle)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
   Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pecans.

2. Prepare the Caramel Filling
   In a small saucepan, melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

3. Shape the Cookies
   Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a small spoonful of the caramel filling in the center, then top with another tablespoon of dough. Seal the edges around the caramel to enclose it.
   Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a pecan half on top of each cookie.

4. Bake the Cookies
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Optional Topping
   Drizzle the cooled cookies with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent touch.

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Additional Content

Cooking Tips and Substitutions

These Extra Pecan Caramel Turtle Cookies are packed with flavor, but here are some tips to make sure they turn out just right:

• Caramel: If you want to save some time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting individual caramel candies. Just make sure to use a thick, rich caramel that will stay inside the cookie while baking.

• Pecans: If you’re a fan of other nuts, feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts or even hazelnuts for a different twist. Just remember that pecans are part of what makes these “turtle” cookies, so it will change the flavor a bit.

• Melting the Chocolate: If you plan to drizzle chocolate over your cookies, use a good-quality semi-sweet or milk chocolate. Melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.

• Dough Consistency: If your dough feels too sticky to handle, pop it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and form into the cookie shapes.

Serving Ideas and When to Enjoy It

These cookies are perfect for nearly every occasion, whether it’s a special holiday or a casual afternoon snack. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Holiday Treats: Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any festive occasion is the perfect time to bake these cookies. They look beautiful on a platter and will definitely impress your guests.

• Baking with Kids: If you have little ones at home, this recipe is a fun one to make together. The gooey caramel filling is always a hit, and they’ll love helping you press the pecan halves onto the cookies.

• Dessert for Any Meal: You can enjoy these cookies with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk. They’re also perfect as an after-dinner dessert or a sweet treat to have with your favorite warm beverage.

Storage and Freezing Tips

These cookies are so delicious you might want to make a double batch! Here’s how to store them:

• Room Temperature: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’ll stay soft and fresh, but they’re best enjoyed within a few days for the perfect texture.

• Refrigeration: If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly so they don’t dry out.

• Freezing: You can freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. After they’ve cooled completely, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between the layers. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Short FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of caramel for the filling?
   Yes! You can use caramel sauce if you prefer, just make sure it’s thick enough to hold up inside the cookie during baking.

2. What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
   If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for 10-15 minutes before baking. This will help them hold their shape.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes! You can make the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. This can help the flavors develop even more!

4. Can I make these cookies without nuts?
   While the nuts are an essential part of the Turtle cookie flavor, you can omit them if needed. You can also replace them with toffee bits or chocolate chunks for a different twist.