Turtles® Pie Recipe

This delightful turtle pie recipe is a unique blend of sweet and savory. It's packed with the classic tastes of caramel and chocolate, with pecans adding a delightful crunch. This pie recipe is sure to impress your guests with its rich flavor and luxurious texture.

Photos of Turtles® Pie Recipe

The key ingredients for this recipe are individually wrapped caramels and unsweetened baking chocolate. These might not be commonly found in every home kitchen, so make a point to pick them up when shopping. Also, make sure to pick up pecans which add a wonderful crunch to this dessert.

Turtles Pie Recipe Ingredients Explanation

Pie shell: A ready-made pie shell is used as the base of the pie. It provides a crispy contrast to the gooey fillings.

Individually wrapped caramels: Melting these down forms a sweet, sticky base for the pie.

Sweetened condensed milk: This gives a rich, creamy texture to the pie filling.

Margarine: Used for melting with the chocolate, it also helps to make the pie moist.

Unsweetened baking chocolate: This is melted down and mixed into the pie filling for a rich chocolate flavor.

Eggs: These act as a binding agent for the pie filling, giving it structure.

Water: This is used to thin out the pie filling mixture.

Vanilla extract: This adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to the pie.

Salt: A pinch of this enhances the other flavours in the pie.

Pecans: These give a nice crunch and nutty taste to the pie.

One reader, Arleyne Beaty says:

This turtle pie recipe is a game-changer! The combination of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and crunchy pecans is pure bliss. The pie is easy to make and tastes heavenly. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion. I highly recommend trying it out!

Arleyne Beaty

Essential Techniques for Making Turtles Pie

How to melt caramels: Heat caramels and sweetened condensed milk together in a saucepan over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until caramels are melted.

How to make chocolate mixture: Heat margarine and chocolate together in a saucepan over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until melted and smooth.

How to bake the pie: Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes until the center of the pie is set.

How to cool the pie: Cool the pie for 1 hour at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

How To Make Turtles® Pie

This Turtles® pie is a luscious and easy baked treat made with chocolate filling and caramel sauce on a flaky store-bought pie shell for a sweet bite.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1pie shell,(9-inch), baked
12individually wrapped caramels,unwrapped
14ozsweetened condensed milk,(1 can) divided, such as Eagle Brand
¼cupmargarine
1ozunsweetened baking chocolate,(2 squares)
2eggs
2tbspwater
1tspvanilla extract
1pinchsalt
½cuppecans,chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Place pie shell in a 9-inch pie dish.
Heat caramels and ⅓ cup sweetened condensed milk together in a saucepan over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until caramels are melted. Spread caramel mixture into the bottom of the pie shell.
Heat margarine and chocolate together in a saucepan over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
Beat eggs, remaining sweetened condensed milk, water, vanilla extract, and salt together in a large bowl until smooth. Stir chocolate mixture into egg mixture; pour over caramel mixture. Top pie with pecans.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes until the center of the pie is set. Cool pie for 1 hour at room temperature. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 318.06kcal
Fat: 17.21g
Saturated Fat: 5.85g
Trans Fat: 0.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.05g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.29g
Carbohydrates: 36.89g
Fiber: 1.13g
Sugar: 24.86g
Protein: 5.27g
Cholesterol: 38.66mg
Sodium: 193.93mg
Calcium: 119.32mg
Potassium: 206.02mg
Iron: 0.92mg
Vitamin A: 37.28µg
Vitamin C: 0.95mg

Helpful Technique for Perfecting Turtles Pie

When melting the caramels and chocolate, it's important to stir continuously to prevent them from burning. Also, using a double boiler can help distribute the heat more evenly and prevent scorching. If you don't have a double boiler, you can make one by placing a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Just make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and equipment before you start cooking to save time and avoid any last-minute rush.

Use pre-made pie crust: Save time by using a pre-made pie crust instead of making it from scratch.

Multi-task: Look for steps in the recipe where you can work on multiple components simultaneously to save time.

Make ahead: Prepare the pie filling or caramel sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the pie.

Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for tools or ingredients.

Substitute Ingredients For Turtles® Pie Recipe

pie shell - Substitute with graham cracker crust: A graham cracker crust can provide a similar crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor to complement the filling.
individually wrapped caramels - Substitute with homemade caramel: Making your own caramel allows you to control the sweetness and flavor, and it can be easily poured into the pie.
sweetened condensed milk - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can offer a rich and creamy texture, along with a hint of coconut flavor that complements the other ingredients.
margarine - Substitute with unsalted butter: Butter can provide a richer flavor and better texture to the pie filling.
unsweetened baking chocolate - Substitute with cocoa powder and butter: Mixing cocoa powder with butter can replicate the flavor and texture of baking chocolate in the recipe.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can act as a binding agent and provide a similar texture in the pie filling.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts can offer a similar nutty flavor and crunch to the pie.

Presentation Ideas for Serving Turtles Pie

Elevate the plating: Create a visually stunning presentation by carefully drizzling a swirl of caramel on the plate before placing the pie slice. This adds an artistic touch and enhances the overall visual appeal.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle a fine dusting of cocoa powder around the edge of the plate to add a touch of elegance. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle depth of flavor to the dish.
Incorporate a touch of sophistication: Place a quenelle of whipped cream on the side of the pie slice. This adds a luxurious element to the presentation and complements the rich flavors of the pie.
Utilize edible flowers: Adorn the plate with a few carefully placed edible flowers to introduce a pop of color and a delicate, fresh element to the presentation.
Attention to detail: Use a fine sieve to lightly dust the pie slice with edible gold dust for a touch of opulence, adding a luxurious and extravagant element to the presentation.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Turtles Pie

Let the turtles pie cool completely to room temperature before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the turtles pie:
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer will help prevent freezer burn.
- Label the wrapped pie with the date and contents.
- Place the wrapped pie in the freezer, where it will keep for up to 2 months.
To thaw a frozen turtles pie:
- Remove the pie from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw gradually.
- Once thawed, you can serve the pie cold or let it come to room temperature before serving.
If you prefer a fresher taste, you can also freeze the unbaked pie filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw the filling in the refrigerator, then pour it into a prepared pie crust and bake as directed in the recipe.

How To Reheat Leftover Turtles Pie

To reheat leftover turtles pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent the top from browning too quickly while allowing the filling to heat through. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie is warmed to your liking. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the pecans on top.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual slices of turtles pie in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals, checking the temperature after each interval. Be careful not to overheat the pie, as this can cause the filling to become rubbery and the crust to become soggy.
For a crispy crust, you can also reheat leftover turtles pie slices in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the pie is heated through and the crust is crispy.
If you want to enjoy your leftover turtles pie cold, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and the filling to soften slightly, making it easier to slice and enjoy.

Interesting Trivia About Turtles Pie

The Turtles Pie recipe is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramel, chocolate, and pecans. It is a perfect treat for those with a sweet tooth.

Is Making Turtles Pie at Home Cost-Effective?

This turtles pie recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as caramels, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans, are fairly affordable and commonly found in grocery stores. However, the use of unsweetened baking chocolate and pecans may slightly increase the overall cost. Considering the yield and the delightful flavors, the approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $12-$15. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, as it offers a delectable dessert that balances sweetness and richness, making it worth the investment.

Is This Dessert Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This turtle pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients that contribute to its unhealthy status are:

Caramels and sweetened condensed milk, which are high in sugar
Margarine, a source of unhealthy trans fats
Pie shell, typically made with refined flour and added fats

The combination of these ingredients results in a dessert that is high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats, while lacking in essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the pie shell with a whole-grain or nut-based crust to increase fiber and nutrient content
Use dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa) instead of unsweetened baking chocolate to add antioxidants and reduce the need for added sugar
Swap margarine for a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or grass-fed butter
Reduce the amount of caramels and sweetened condensed milk, or replace them with healthier alternatives like dates or coconut cream
Incorporate more pecans or other nuts to increase the protein and healthy fat content of the pie

By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious version of the turtle pie that still satisfies your sweet tooth without compromising your health goals.

Editor's Opinion on the Turtles Pie Recipe

This turtle pie recipe is a delightful combination of rich caramel, velvety chocolate, and crunchy pecans, creating a luscious and indulgent dessert. The contrast of the gooey caramel layer with the smooth chocolate filling is a true delight for the taste buds. The addition of pecans provides a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor. However, to elevate the pie further, consider incorporating a homemade pie crust for added depth of flavor and texture. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic dessert and is sure to impress any sweet tooth.

Enhance Your Turtles® Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for balancing out the sweetness of the turtle pie.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Fresh asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the turtle pie.

Cranberry Orange Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a tangy cranberry and citrus dressing, serving as a palate cleanser after indulging in the decadent turtle pie.

Similar Dessert Recipes to Try

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a delicious and colorful dish by stuffing bell peppers with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, then baking them to perfection.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: Blend together ripe mangoes and creamy coconut milk, pour the mixture into popsicle molds, and freeze for a refreshing and tropical dessert.

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Pasta: Cook up a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by sautéing tender chicken and earthy mushrooms, then tossing them with al dente pasta in a rich and velvety sauce.

Suggested Appetizers and Entrées to Serve With This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a creamy mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a rich and creamy dip using spinach, artichokes, and a blend of cheeses. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that's perfect for any gathering.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender pieces of chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry by sautéing thinly sliced beef with an assortment of colorful vegetables in a savory sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a hearty and nutritious dinner option.

Share your thoughts on the delectable Turtles® Pie Recipe in the Baking and Desserts forum and let us know if you have any creative twists to add to this classic treat!

FAQ:

What is the best way to melt the caramels and sweetened condensed milk?

The best way to melt the caramels and sweetened condensed milk is to heat them together in a saucepan over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes until the caramels are completely melted.

Can I use butter instead of margarine for the chocolate mixture?

Yes, you can use butter instead of margarine for the chocolate mixture. Just make sure to use the same amount as specified in the recipe.

Can I use a store-bought pie shell or should I make my own?

You can use a store-bought pie shell for this recipe. It's convenient and works just as well as a homemade one.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans for the topping?

Yes, you can use walnuts instead of pecans for the topping if you prefer. Both nuts will add a delicious crunch to the pie.

How long should I let the pie cool before serving?

It's best to let the pie cool for about 1 hour at room temperature before serving. After that, you can chill it in the refrigerator until you're ready to enjoy it.