Rolo Pretzel Turtles
These three-ingredient treats combine salty pretzels, melted Rolo caramels, and crunchy pecans for an irresistible sweet-salty snack.
They take less than 10 minutes to make and are perfect for holiday candy trays or last-minute gifts.
Why You’ll Love It
- Only 3 ingredients needed
- Ready in under 10 minutes
- No candy thermometer required
- Perfect sweet-salty balance
- Great for kids to help make
- Ideal for gifting and parties
Ingredients
- 40 small pretzel twists (waffle-shaped work best)
- 40 Rolo chocolates, unwrapped
- 40 pecan halves
Optional Variations:
- M&Ms instead of pecans
- Walnut halves
- Almond slivers
- Sea salt flakes for finishing
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Arrange the pretzels in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place one unwrapped Rolo chocolate on top of each pretzel.
- Bake for 3-4 minutes until the Rolos are soft but still holding their shape.
- The chocolate should look shiny and slightly melted.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
- Immediately press one pecan half into each softened Rolo.
- Press firmly enough to flatten the Rolo slightly but not so hard that the pretzel breaks.
- If desired, sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top while the chocolate is still soft.
- Let the turtles cool completely on the baking sheet — about 15 minutes at room temperature.
- For faster setting, transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator for 5 minutes.
Helpful Tips and Substitutions
Unwrap all the Rolos before you start — this makes assembly much faster.
Use a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Watch the oven closely — Rolos can go from soft to fully melted quickly.
Square pretzel snaps or pretzel rounds also work well.
For a nut-free version, use M&Ms, candy corn, or marshmallows instead of pecans.
Make sure pecans are dry-roasted for the best crunch.
Serving Ideas
Pile these on a festive platter for holiday parties.
Package in clear cellophane bags with ribbon for easy homemade gifts.
Add to cookie tins for variety.
Set out in a candy dish for movie night or game day snacking.
Include on a dessert charcuterie board with other chocolates and cookies.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Store in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
In hot weather, refrigerate to prevent the caramel from getting too soft.
These freeze well for up to 2 months — layer between wax paper in a freezer-safe container.
Thaw at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving.
You can prep trays of pretzels and Rolos ahead of time, then bake just before serving for warm, gooey turtles.
Simple and Addictive
These Rolo pretzel turtles prove that the best treats are often the easiest.
Keep this recipe handy whenever you need a quick, crowd-pleasing snack.
