Do Share Recipe

I just made this Chocolate Turtle Apple Slices Recipe, and I can’t stop smiling! Honestly, they’re one of my favorite fall treats because they feel fancy but are so easy to make. The combination of crisp apples, rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans is irresistible.

I love how each bite reminds me of chocolate turtles in mini form. If you’re looking for a sweet snack that’s both fun and simple, this recipe is perfect, especially when paired with savory snacks like the easy fried pickle and ranch dip recipe for a balanced spread.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious Chocolate Turtle Apple Slices:

2 very large Fuji apples – I love Fuji apples because they’re thick, sweet, and hold up well under chocolate.
3 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – use high-quality chocolate for a smooth, glossy coating.
1 tablespoon coconut oil – this keeps the chocolate silky and prevents it from hardening too quickly. Refined coconut oil is best so it doesn’t add a coconut flavor.
1 cup caramels, melted – I prefer Kraft caramels because they melt evenly and stay soft.
½ cup chopped pecans – toast them lightly for extra crunch and a deeper flavor.

Note: Several servings.

Variations

You can tweak this recipe to match your taste or dietary preferences:

Use dairy-free chocolate and caramel for a vegan-friendly version.
Swap pecans with almonds, walnuts, or even hazelnuts for a different crunch.
For a sugar-free option, try sugar-free chocolate chips and caramel candies.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt over the caramel for a sweet-and-salty twist.
Mix in shredded coconut or crushed pretzels for a fun texture variation.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour (mostly chilling)
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Equipment You Need

Chef’s knife – for precise apple slicing.
Microwave-safe mixing bowls – for melting chocolate and caramel smoothly.
13″x18″ half sheet pan – gives enough space for all apple slices.
Parchment paper – prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Popsicle sticks – for dipping and serving convenience.

How to Make Chocolate Turtle Apple Slices Recipe

Slice Apples and Insert Popsicle Sticks

Start by washing and slicing your Fuji apples into ½-inch thick pieces. Make a small slit at the bottom of each slice and insert a popsicle stick. This makes dipping much easier and gives each piece a fun presentation.

Melt Chocolate and Dip Apples

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals. Stir until smooth and glossy. Dip each apple slice fully in the chocolate, letting excess drip back into the bowl before placing on the parchment-lined sheet.

Drizzle Caramel and Add Nuts

Microwave caramels in a separate bowl until smooth, being careful not to overheat. Drizzle caramel over each chocolate-covered apple slice and sprinkle with chopped pecans while the caramel is still warm.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the apple slices for about one hour so the chocolate and caramel set. Once firm, they’re ready to enjoy. These treats are best eaten the same day for maximum freshness.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

I always pat apple slices dry before dipping to prevent watery chocolate.
Using a high-quality chocolate makes a huge difference in taste and shine.
Don’t rush the caramel drizzle; use a spoon or a small piping bag for even coverage.
I like to toast the pecans slightly—it brings out more flavor.
Refrigerate on a sheet with raised edges to catch any dripping caramel.

How to Serve Chocolate Turtle Apple Slices Recipe

These apple slices look great on a platter lined with parchment paper. You can drizzle extra chocolate in a zigzag pattern over the top for a decorative touch. Garnish with a few whole pecans or a light dusting of sea salt for a visually appealing, gourmet presentation. They’re perfect for fall gatherings, kids’ parties, or just a cozy night at home alongside crowd-pleasing options like the buffalo chicken nuggets recipe.

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you get per serving (1 slice):

Calories: 420 kcal – a rich treat perfect for a sweet craving.
Protein: 5 g – a small protein boost from nuts.
Carbohydrates: 43 g – mainly from apples, chocolate, and caramel.
Fat: 26 g – mostly from chocolate and pecans, giving it a decadent texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storage: Store these apple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This keeps the chocolate and caramel firm without making the apples soggy.

Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing chocolate turtle apple slices because the texture of the apple changes after thawing.

Reheating: No reheating needed; serve chilled for the perfect bite. If stored properly, they remain fresh and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why I keep coming back to this snack:

Simple to make – only five main ingredients and minimal prep.
Flavor-packed – chocolate, caramel, and pecans make every bite irresistible.
Versatile – can adjust toppings and chocolate type for any preference.
Kid-friendly – popsicle sticks make them fun to eat.
Perfect for seasonal treats – ideal for fall gatherings or holiday snacks.

Ben Carraoli