Description
This Turtle Fudge Festive Recipe combines rich caramel, creamy chocolate, and crunchy pecans to deliver a decadent and easy-to-make treat perfect for holidays and special occasions. The fudge layers a smooth, luscious caramel base with a chocolatey topping, enhanced by a hint of vanilla and a pinch of salt to balance sweetness, making it an irresistible dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Layer
- 12 ounces caramel squares (approx. 42 squares)
- 2 tablespoons whipping cream (divided, if needed)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped into bits (plus extra for topping, optional)
Chocolate Layer
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 ounces)
- 14 ounce can sweetened condensed milk
- ½ tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons whipping cream (divided, if needed)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare Caramel Layer: In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine caramel squares with 1 tablespoon of whipping cream. Stir continuously until the caramel melts completely and the mixture is smooth. If too thick, add additional whipping cream a little at a time to reach a spreadable consistency.
- Add Pecans to Caramel: Remove the saucepan from heat and fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans evenly into the caramel mixture.
- Set Caramel Layer: Pour the caramel-pecan mixture into a lined or greased square baking dish, spreading it out evenly to form the base layer. Allow to cool slightly while preparing the chocolate layer.
- Prepare Chocolate Layer: In a separate saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk. Gently heat over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently until the chocolate melts and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in half a tablespoon of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and if needed, 1-2 tablespoons of whipping cream to achieve a creamy texture in the chocolate mixture.
- Assemble Fudge: Pour the chocolate mixture over the caramel-pecan base in the baking dish, spreading evenly to cover the caramel layer completely. Optionally, sprinkle extra chopped pecans over the top for added texture and decoration.
- Chill to Set: Place the dish in the refrigerator for at least 2-3 hours or until the fudge is firm enough to cut into squares.
- Serve: Once set, cut the fudge into small squares and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For easier caramel melting, use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning.
- Make sure to stir continuously when melting caramel and chocolate to avoid burning and achieve smooth textures.
- Use parchment paper to line the baking dish for easier removal of fudge.
- Store fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Adding a pinch of salt enhances the flavor balance between sweet and salty.
- Chopped pecans can be substituted with walnuts or almonds according to preference.
