Print

Turtle Fudge Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 6 reviews

Turtle Fudge is a decadent homemade candy featuring rich swirls of milk and semisweet chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecan halves. This delightful treat combines smooth melted marshmallows with buttery sweetness and caramel ribbons, making it an irresistible dessert perfect for holidays and special occasions.

Ingredients

Fudge Base

  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 25 marshmallows
  • 1 package milk chocolate chips (11.5 ounces)
  • 1 package semisweet chocolate chips (12 ounces)
  • 2 ounces unsweetened chocolate
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Caramel Swirl

  • 1 package caramel bits (about 11 ounces), or about 2 cups caramels
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Add-ins

  • 2 ½ cups pecan halves, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Syrup: In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, milk, and unsalted butter. Heat over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a rolling boil.
  2. Boil the Mixture: Once boiling, maintain a rolling boil for two full minutes while continuing to stir to ensure the sugar dissolves completely and the mixture thickens.
  3. Combine Chocolates and Marshmallows: In a large mixing bowl, add the marshmallows, milk chocolate chips, semisweet chocolate chips, unsweetened chocolate, and vanilla extract.
  4. Mix Hot Syrup into Chocolate Mixture: Carefully pour the hot sugar mixture over the chocolate and marshmallow ingredients. Using a stand mixer with a whisk attachment or a hand mixer, blend on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is smooth and all marshmallows are melted, scraping the bowl sides as needed.
  5. Melt the Caramel Swirl: While mixing, combine caramel bits and heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is melted completely and smooth. Set aside.
  6. Incorporate Pecans and Pour: Fold the chopped pecans gently into the smooth fudge mixture. Pour the fudge into a parchment paper-lined 15 x 10 x 1 inch baking sheet, spreading evenly.
  7. Add Caramel Swirl: Drizzle the melted caramel over the fudge surface and use a knife to carefully swirl the caramel into the fudge for a marbled effect.
  8. Chill the Fudge: Refrigerate the fudge for at least 3 hours or overnight until firm.
  9. Serve and Store: Once chilled, cut into small bite-sized pieces. Store any leftovers in a sealed container or ziploc bag for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • Use a stand mixer or hand mixer for smooth blending; whisk by hand would be very difficult.
  • Ensure to scrape the bowl sides when mixing fudge base for even melting.
  • Keep boiling the sugar mixture for the full 2 minutes to achieve the right consistency.
  • Pecans can be swapped with walnuts if preferred.
  • Store fudge in a cool place or refrigerator for best freshness.
  • Cut fudge into small pieces for easy serving and portion control.