Why You’ll Love Fudgy Turtle Cookies {cake mix} Recipe

I enjoy this recipe because it’s incredibly simple and practically foolproof. I like that it uses cake mix, which keeps the cookies soft and fudgy every time. The combination of chocolate, caramel, and pecans gives me that classic turtle candy flavor in cookie form, and it comes together in minutes.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 Dark Chocolate Fudge Cake Mix (dry)
1/2 C UNSALTED Butter (melted)
1 Large Egg
2 tsp Vanilla Extract
1&1/4 Cups Caramel Bits
1 Scant Cup Pecans (chopped)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees F. Using my mixer with a dough hook attached, I add the dry cake mix, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. I mix everything together until it reaches a thick, cookie-dough-like texture.

Once the dough is ready, I add in the caramel bits and chopped pecans and mix until they’re evenly distributed. I scoop the dough onto a parchment paper–lined baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie. I bake them for 8 to 10 minutes, then remove the pan from the oven and let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about three minutes. After that, I transfer them to a cooling rack and let them cool to my desired temperature before serving.

Servings and Timing

I usually get about 24 cookies from this recipe. The prep time is around 5 minutes, the cook time is about 10 minutes, and the total time comes out to roughly 15 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap the pecans for walnuts if that’s what I have on hand. When I want extra indulgence, I press a few additional caramel bits into the tops of the cookies right after baking. I also like adding a small pinch of sea salt on top once they come out of the oven for a sweet-and-salty twist.

Storage/Reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If I want them warm again, I reheat them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to soften the caramel.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

I stick with dark chocolate fudge for the best flavor, but other chocolate cake mixes work too.

Do I need a mixer for this recipe?

I prefer using a mixer, but I can mix it by hand with a sturdy spoon if needed.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

I’ve noticed this can happen if the oven runs hot, which can also cause the caramel bits to burn.

Can I chill the dough?

I don’t usually need to, but chilling can help if the dough feels too soft.

Are these cookies supposed to be soft?

I like them best when they’re soft and fudgy in the center.

Can I freeze these cookies?

I freeze them once baked and cooled, then thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

Can I use salted butter instead?

I can, but I prefer unsalted butter so I can control the salt level.

What size scoop do you use?

I usually use a standard cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies.

Can I add chocolate chips?

I sometimes do when I want even more chocolate flavor.

How do I know when they’re done?

I take them out when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft.

Conclusion

I keep these Fudgy Turtle Cookies in my back pocket for when I need a quick, crowd-pleasing dessert. They’re rich, easy, and full of classic flavors I never get tired of, making them a go-to treat I love sharing.