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Turtle Brownies Recipe


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3.8 from 2 reviews

  • Author: Molly
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 9 servings

Description

Indulge in these rich and decadent Turtle Brownies featuring a fudgy cocoa base, infused with a hint of coffee, mixed with chocolate chips and chopped pecans, and topped with a luscious homemade caramel sauce, extra chocolate chips, and pecans for a perfect balance of textures and flavors.


Ingredients

Brownies

  • 10 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp instant coffee granules
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 large eggs, cold
  • 2 tsp vanilla bean paste
  • 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus more for topping
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans, plus more for topping

Caramel Sauce

  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 or 8×8 inch baking pan with aluminum foil and lightly spray it with cooking spray or grease it with butter. Set aside.
  2. Browning Butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 10 tablespoons of unsalted butter and cook until it turns a light brown or caramel color, about 5-10 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning. Using a light-colored pan helps.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: Pour the browned butter into a large bowl. Add granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, cocoa powder, salt, instant coffee granules, and baking powder. Stir until well combined and let rest for 5 minutes until cooled.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Stir in the two cold large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla bean paste until the batter has a glossy sheen.
  5. Add Flour: Fold in 2/3 cup all-purpose flour gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep brownies tender.
  6. Add Mix-ins: Stir in 1/2 cup chocolate chips and 1/2 cup chopped pecans evenly through the batter.
  7. Bake Brownies: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. Cool Brownies: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the brownies to cool completely before removing from the pan.
  9. Make Caramel Sauce: Combine 1 cup light brown sugar, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1/2 cup heavy cream in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally and cook for about 8 minutes until thickened. If thickening slows, increase heat slightly and whisk constantly. Remove from heat.
  10. Add Vanilla to Caramel: Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract into the caramel sauce. Transfer to a container and refrigerate to firm up and cool.
  11. Assemble Toppings: Drizzle the cooled caramel sauce generously over the cooled brownies. Sprinkle additional chopped pecans and chocolate chips on top.
  12. Chill Brownies: Place the brownies in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the caramel and toppings.
  13. Serve: Once set, slice into 9 squares, serve, and enjoy your rich, nutty Turtle Brownies!

Notes

  • Using browned butter adds a nutty, caramel flavor that enhances the brownies’ depth.
  • Instant coffee granules intensify the chocolate flavor without making the brownies taste like coffee.
  • Be careful not to overbake brownies to keep them fudgy and moist.
  • Letting the caramel sauce cool and set properly prevents it from running off the brownies.
  • Optional: Toast pecans before adding for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American