If you’re looking for a fun and easy candy recipe that’s perfect for the holidays, Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles are the way to go! These delightful treats combine the rich, creamy flavor of chocolate with the crunch of pecans and the irresistible gooeyness of Rolo candies. The best part? You make them all in the slow cooker, which means little effort and even less mess. With just five simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious homemade treat that’s perfect for gift-giving, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles are incredibly easy to make, thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. You get all the richness of chocolate-covered nuts and caramel without the hassle of stovetop candy making. The melted chocolate perfectly coats the gooey Rolo candies, while the crunchy pecans add texture and flavor. This recipe is also highly customizable—add sprinkles, drizzle with extra chocolate, or even switch out the nuts for your favorite variety. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned candy maker, these turtles are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups pecans, chopped
- 32 ounces almond bark (white or milk chocolate)
- 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 6 ounces chocolate baking bar (such as Baker’s or Ghirardelli)
- 24 ounces Rolo candies, unwrapped
- Sprinkles (optional, for topping)
Kitchen Equipment Needed:
- Slow cooker (Crockpot)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Small cookie scoop or spoon
- Mixing spatula
- Microwave-safe bowl (for melting the chocolate, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Start by setting your slow cooker to LOW heat. Add the pecans, almond bark, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and chocolate baking bar to the slow cooker. The combination of almond bark and chocolate chips will give your candy that classic chocolate flavor, while the baking bar adds richness and depth.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate Allow the chocolate and pecans to melt in the slow cooker for about 1 ½ to 2 hours. During this time, the heat will slowly melt the chocolate, turning it into a smooth, creamy mixture. Once it’s melted, uncover the slow cooker and stir the chocolate mixture well until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheets While the chocolate is melting, prepare your baking sheets. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will ensure that the chocolate turtles don’t stick and are easy to remove once cooled.
Step 4: Place the Rolos Next, lay the Rolo candies out on the prepared baking sheets. Place them about 2 inches apart, making sure each one has enough room for the chocolate to spread over them.
Step 5: Scoop the Chocolate Pecan Mixture Once the chocolate mixture is ready, use a small cookie scoop or spoon to scoop the melted chocolate and pecan mixture from the slow cooker. Place a generous spoonful of the chocolate mixture on top of each Rolo candy. Be sure to cover each piece of candy completely with the chocolate and nuts.
Step 6: Add Sprinkles (Optional) If you’d like to add a festive touch, sprinkle some colorful sprinkles on top of each candy while the chocolate is still soft. This is especially fun for holiday treats, but it’s totally optional.
Step 7: Cool and Set Allow the chocolate turtles to cool completely at room temperature. They’ll firm up as they cool, creating a delicious, bite-sized treat. For faster results, you can also place them in the refrigerator to set for about 30 minutes.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Once the chocolate has hardened, lift the turtles off the parchment paper or silicone mat and transfer them to a storage container. These candies are now ready to serve! They make perfect holiday gifts, party treats, or a sweet snack to enjoy anytime.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: These chocolate turtles are perfect for serving on a holiday platter, at parties, or as a quick snack. You can even pack them in small gift bags or jars for a homemade gift that’s sure to impress!
- Storage: Store your chocolate turtles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll last for up to two weeks. If you’re making a large batch ahead of time, you can also freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Variations:
- Nuts: While pecans are the classic choice, you can also use walnuts, cashews, or hazelnuts if you prefer. Just chop them roughly before adding them to the chocolate.
- Chocolate: If you’re not a fan of almond bark, you can substitute it with white chocolate, milk chocolate, or even dark chocolate. Each variety will give the turtles a different flavor profile.
- Toppings: For an extra special touch, drizzle melted white chocolate or dark chocolate over the turtles once they’ve set. You could also add sea salt or a few more chopped nuts for additional flavor.
Helpful Notes:
- Slow Cooker Temperature: Make sure your slow cooker is set to LOW to avoid burning the chocolate. If you’re using a newer or higher-powered slow cooker, check the mixture after 1 hour to ensure it’s melting at the right pace.
- Rolos: If you can’t find Rolo candies in your area, you can substitute with other caramel-filled chocolates, such as Werther’s Original Caramel Candies or Hershey’s Kisses with Caramel.
- Melting Tip: For a smoother chocolate mixture, you can melt the chocolate in the microwave before adding it to the slow cooker. This ensures the chocolate won’t seize or burn when combined with the other ingredients.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs:
- Martha Stewart: “When making chocolate candies, always make sure your work surface is cool to prevent the chocolate from melting too quickly or becoming too soft.”
- Ina Garten: “If you want to make your candies extra special, drizzle with a little white chocolate and sprinkle with sea salt to balance out the sweetness.”
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use different types of chocolate for this recipe? Yes, you can swap out the almond bark and semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate, depending on your preference.
2. How long do Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles last? These candies will stay fresh for up to one week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. They can also be refrigerated for up to two weeks.
3. Can I make these ahead of time for a party or gift? Absolutely! These chocolate turtles store really well and can be made up to a week in advance. They also freeze nicely if you want to make them further ahead.
4. Can I use a different nut besides pecans? Yes! Feel free to substitute with walnuts, hazelnuts, or cashews for a different flavor and texture.
5. How do I store leftover turtles? Store your leftover turtles in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. If it’s hot or humid, keep them in the fridge to prevent the chocolate from melting.
These Slow Cooker Chocolate Turtles are a deliciously easy candy recipe that will have everyone asking for the recipe. With just a few ingredients and a bit of time, you can create these sweet, gooey, nutty treats that are perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving a sweet indulgence. Enjoy making and sharing these irresistible chocolates with your loved ones!
