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Golden turtle cookie cups filled with gooey caramel, melted chocolate, and topped with crunchy pecans.

Turtle Cookie Cups Recipe – Easy Dessert Treat Idea

These turtle cookie cups are the ultimate bite-sized dessert. A buttery cookie base filled with gooey caramel, rich melted chocolate, and topped with crunchy pecans makes them irresistible. Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or whenever you crave a sweet treat packed with flavor and texture!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert, Party Treat
Cuisine American-Inspired, Holiday Baking
Servings 24 mini cookie cups.
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Mini muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Saucepan for caramel
  • Spatula & spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup caramel (homemade or store-bought, thick)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (melted)
  • 1 cup pecans (toasted, chopped)

Instructions
 

  • Make dough: Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg and vanilla. Mix in flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • Shape cups: Roll dough into balls and place in greased mini muffin tin. Press centers to form cups. Chill for 10 minutes.
  • Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until golden. Press centers again while warm to reinforce cup shape. Cool completely.
  • Fill with caramel: Spoon thick caramel into each cooled cookie cup.
  • Add chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over caramel.
  • Top with pecans: Place toasted pecans on top, pressing gently.
  • Set & serve: Allow cups to set before serving.

Notes

  • Pecans: Toast lightly for deeper flavor.
  • Caramel: Use thick caramel to avoid runny filling.
  • Variations: Try white chocolate drizzle, sea salt caramel, or peanut butter swirls.
  • Storage: Keeps 3 days at room temp, 1 week refrigerated, 2 months frozen.
  • Pro tip: Use a mini muffin tin for uniform, party-ready portions.
Keyword bite-sized desserts, caramel chocolate pecan cookies, holiday treats, party sweets, turtle cookie cups