Have you ever looked at a piece of candy and wondered how it got its name? Chocolate turtles are one of those treats that make you pause and think, “Wait, why turtles?” The answer lies in their turtle-like shape, but there’s much more to these sweet delights than their quirky name.
In this article, we’ll uncover the story behind their name, dive into what makes them irresistible, and explain how you can make them at home. Along the way, we’ll share fun variations, answer common questions, and prospect a few interesting facts. By the end, you’ll have a new appreciation for this classic candy!
What Are Chocolate Turtles and How Did They Get Their Name?
Let’s start with the basics. These candies combine three iconic ingredients: pecans, caramel, and chocolate. The pecans form the base, the caramel is layered on top, and smooth, rich chocolate coats everything.
The name comes from their shape. As you look at a finished candy, the pecans stick out like little legs, while the caramel and chocolate form the rounded “body” and “shell.” Together, they resemble tiny turtles—adorable and delicious!
The History Behind Chocolate Turtles: How the Name Was Born
To understand how these candies got their name, we need to take a trip back to 1918. That’s when DeMet’s Candy Company in Chicago started making them. A candy maker noticed that the caramel-and-pecan clusters resembled tiny turtles, and someone in the factory made a joke about it. The name stuck.
By the 1920s, DeMet’s trademarked the name “Turtles,” and their candy became a nationwide hit. Today, you can find homemade and store-bought versions everywhere, but the original DeMet’s Turtles remain a beloved classic.
What Makes Them So Special?
It’s not just their name that keeps these candies popular. They offer an incredible combination of flavors and textures:
- Flavor Harmony: Sweet caramel blends beautifully with the nuttiness of pecans, while chocolate ties everything together.
- Texture Heaven: The crunch of the pecans, the gooeyness of the caramel, and the smoothness of the chocolate create a perfect mouthfeel.
- Versatile Appeal: These treats suit every occasion, from elegant gifts to casual movie-night snacks.
How to Make Chocolate Turtles at Home
For those who love a little DIY fun, making these candies at home is surprisingly simple. Plus, homemade versions often taste even better than store-bought ones!
Ingredients
- 2 cups of pecan halves (toasting adds extra flavor)
- 20 soft caramels (store-bought works perfectly)
- 2 tablespoons of heavy cream
- 1 cup of chocolate chips (semi-sweet, milk, or dark—your choice)
- A pinch of sea salt (optional but highly recommended)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for 7–10 minutes. Toasting intensifies their nutty flavor.
- Melt the Caramel: Combine the caramels and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat the mixture in 20-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and pourable.
- Assemble the Turtles: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange pecans in clusters of 3–4 to form the “legs.” Spoon melted caramel over the center of each cluster.
- Melt the Chocolate: Microwave chocolate chips in 20-second bursts, stirring each time, until silky smooth. Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecans.
- Add Salt (Optional): If you enjoy sweet-and-salty flavors, sprinkle a little sea salt on each candy.
- Set and Serve: Finally, chill the tray in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens. Once set, your homemade candies are ready to enjoy!
Variations to Try
If you’re feeling creative, there are plenty of ways to put your own twist on this classic candy. Here are some fun ideas:
- Dark Chocolate Turtles: For a bolder taste, replace milk chocolate with dark chocolate.
- White Chocolate Turtles: Use white chocolate for a sweeter and creamier variation.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: Add a drizzle of peanut butter on top of the chocolate for extra richness.
- Nut-Free Turtles: Swap pecans for pretzels or crispy rice cereal to make a nut-free version.
- Holiday Sprinkles: Add festive sprinkles before the chocolate sets to create a seasonal touch.
Why Do People Love These Treats?
Chocolate turtles (or similar candies) have delighted people for decades. Here’s why they continue to stand out:
- Universal Appeal: Both kids and adults love them, making them a perfect choice for any occasion.
- Nostalgic Vibes: For many, these candies bring back memories of holidays, family gatherings, or trips to candy shops.
- Customizable Recipes: You can tweak the recipe to suit your taste, whether that means extra caramel, dark chocolate, or nut-free options.
Table: Key Features of Chocolate Turtles
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Shape | Resembles a turtle, hence the name |
| Key Ingredients | Chocolate, caramel, pecans |
| Texture | Gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, smooth chocolate |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, nutty, buttery |
Fun Facts
- Trademarked Name: DeMet’s Candy Company owns the trademark for “Turtles,” but you can still make similar treats at home.
- They Have a Holiday: National Chocolate Turtles Day happens every year on June 16th.
- Global Variations: Around the world, people create similar treats using almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts.
FAQs: Common Questions About These Candies
Q: Why are they called turtles?
A: Their shape inspired the name. The pecans resemble legs, and the chocolate-caramel top looks like a turtle shell.
Q: Can I make turtles without nuts?
A: Yes! Pretzels or crispy rice cereal work as great substitutes for pecans.
Q: Are they vegan-friendly?
A: You can make them vegan by using dairy-free chocolate, plant-based caramel, and nut-free substitutes.
Q: How should I store homemade candies?
A: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them for up to three months.
Q: Where can I buy chocolate turtles?
A: You can find them in grocery stores, specialty candy shops, and online. DeMet’s Turtles are a well-known brand.
Final Thoughts
Chocolate turtles earned their name from their quirky, turtle-like shape, but their appeal goes far beyond that. These candies offer a timeless combination of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion.
Whether you decide to buy them or make your own, these treats never fail to delight. So, why not whip up a batch or pick some up today? You deserve a sweet treat!