Double Chocolate Caramel Turtle Treats
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Recently, Melanie over at Mel’s Kitchen Cafe shared a trio of elevated Rice Krispie treat recipes inspired by a recent issue of Cook’s Country. She made the Crispy Chocolate Cherry Treats, but also included the recipes for Fluffer-Nutter Treats and the one that immediately caught my eye—Double Chocolate Caramel Turtle Treats. With a name like that, how could I resist?
I’ve had a generous stash of Rice Krispies in my pantry just waiting for a creative twist, and this turtle version was calling my name. Rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and a hint of crunch—what’s not to love? I couldn’t wait to give it a try. I did make one small adjustment: I skipped mixing in the pecans since I’m the only one in my household who enjoys them. Instead, I sprinkled chopped pecans over just part of the pan so I could still enjoy that nutty crunch without alienating the rest of the family.
I’m planning to try the other versions soon and will definitely share my thoughts once I do. Honestly, Rice Krispies treats are one of those nostalgic, foolproof desserts—whether you keep them classic or dress them up, they’re always a hit. These kicked-up versions are a fun way to bring new life to a pantry staple, and I’m excited to keep experimenting!
Ingredients for Double Chocolate Caramel Turtle Treats
- BUTTER
- MINI MARSHMALLOWS
- SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS
- SALT
- VANILLA EXTRACT
- RICE KRISPIES CEREAL (OR OFF-BRAND WORKS FANTASTIC, TOO)
- SOFT CARAMEL CANDIES
- TOASTED PECANS
- SEMISWEET CHOCOLATE CHIPS
Instructions for Double Chocolate Caramel Turtle Treats
Prep your pan: Line an 11×7-inch baking dish with foil, leaving a bit of overhang on the sides to make lifting the treats easier later. Lightly coat the foil with nonstick cooking spray. For thinner treats, use a 9×13-inch pan; for extra-thick squares, an 8×8-inch pan works beautifully.
Melt the base: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot over low heat, melt the butter. Add marshmallows, semisweet chocolate chips, and a pinch of salt. Stir constantly until everything is melted and silky smooth—this takes about 8 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
Mix in the goodies: Off the heat, fold in the Rice Krispies, soft caramels (cut into small pieces), and chopped pecans until everything is evenly coated and combined. Scrape the mixture into your prepared pan and press it firmly into the corners using a greased spatula or the back of a spoon.
Cool and drizzle: Let the treats cool completely at room temperature—about 1 hour. Meanwhile, melt additional semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave at 30-second intervals on low power, stirring between each round until smooth.
Decorate: Transfer the melted chocolate into a zip-top bag, pressing it into one corner. Snip a tiny piece off the corner with scissors and drizzle the chocolate over the cooled treats in a zigzag pattern. Let the chocolate set for about 45 minutes.
Slice and serve: Use the foil overhang to lift the treats out of the pan. Cut into squares and serve. These rich, chewy, chocolatey bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a sweet afternoon treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to use foil in the pan?
Foil with an overhang makes lifting and slicing the treats much easier. You can also use parchment paper for a nonstick alternative, just be sure to grease it lightly.
Can I make these nut-free?
Absolutely. Simply omit the pecans or swap them for something like crushed pretzels or sunflower seeds for crunch without the allergens.
What kind of chocolate chips should I use?
Semisweet chocolate chips are ideal for balance, but you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter treat or dark chocolate for a richer flavor. Just melt gently to avoid scorching.
How long do these treats stay fresh?
They’re best within 2–3 days, stored in an airtight container at room temperature. You can refrigerate them to extend shelf life, but bring them to room temp before serving for best texture.
Can I freeze these bars?
Yes, they freeze well. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Use a larger pan (like a 9×13) and adjust the cooling time slightly. These are great for parties, bake sales, or gifting.
How do I get clean slices?
Let the treats cool completely before cutting. Use a sharp knife sprayed lightly with cooking spray or wiped with a damp cloth between cuts for neat edges.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Double Chocolate Caramel Turtle Treats
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 10 oz bag mini marshmallows
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- 5 cups Rice Krispies cereal or off-brand works fantastic, too
- 15 soft caramel candies quartered
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
- ½ cup semisweet chocolate chips melted
Instructions
- Prepare pan by lining an 11 x 7-inch baking dish with foil, allowing excess foil to hang over pan edges. If you want the treats thinner, use a 9 x 13 – for thicker treats still, use an 8 x 8-inch pan.
- Grease the foil with nonstick cooking spray. Melt butter in a large pot over low heat. Add marshmallows, semisweet chips, and salt and cook, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth, about 8 minutes. Stir in vanilla. Off heat, stir in rice krispies, caramels, and pecans until incorporated. Scrape mixture into prepared pan and press into bottom and corners with a greased spatula.
- Let cool completely, about 1 hour. Melt semisweet chocolate chips in the microwave on low at 30 second intervals until smooth. Pour melted chocolate into a ziploc baggie, pressing chocolate into one corner of the bag.
- Using scissors, clip a tiny piece off the corner and drizzle chocolate over cooled treats. Allow chocolate to cool, about 45 minutes. Using foil overhang, lift treats from pan. Cut into squares. Serve.
