Turtle Cupcakes

These Turtle Cupcakes are the perfect decadent treat if you are a fan of chocolate turtles with sweet gooey caramel and crunchy pecans in every bite. These chocolate caramel cupcakes are deliciously moist, rich and promise a delectable escape into chocolatey bliss with the perfect harmony of ingredients in every bite.

Updated February 2024

Decadent Turtle Cupcakes: A Sweet Delight for Every Occasion

Indulge your sweet tooth with these irresistible Turtle Cupcakes! If you’re a fan of the classic chocolate turtle candies, these chocolate cupcakes with caramel are sure to be a hit! Perfect for any celebration or a delightful treat, this cupcake recipe boasts a harmonious blend of rich chocolate, luscious caramel, and crunchy pecans.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these chocolate caramel cupcakes promises to deliver a sweet symphony of flavors in every bite. And there are lots of options whether you are gluten-free, cutting down on sugar, or embracing the dairy-free lifestyle, we’ve got you covered with versatile ingredient options.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chocolate Cupcakes:

• Gluten-Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour: Achieve a perfect texture with Bob’s Red Mill or opt for finely ground oat flour or all-purpose flour.
• Granulated Pure Maple Sugar: Add natural sweetness; choose monk fruit sweetener for a lower sugar, lower carb alternative.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder or Cacao Powder: Infuse that deep chocolate flavor into your cupcakes.
• Baking Powder, Baking Soda, and Salt: The trio that ensures a fluffy and well-balanced cupcake.
• Egg, Vanilla Extract, and Unsweetened Almond Milk: Essential for flavor and moisture.
• Avocado Oil or Preferred Neutral Oil: Elevate the richness; substitute with melted coconut oil if desired.
• Boiling Water: The secret ingredient for a velvety texture.

Caramel Frosting:

• Vegan Butter or Regular Unsalted Butter: Tailor to your dietary needs for a creamy, buttery frosting.
• Powdered Sweetener or Powdered Sugar: Achieve the perfect sweetness without compromise.
• Caramel Sauce: Homemade caramel sauce or store-bought, it adds a decadent caramel layer.
• Vanilla Extract and Dairy-Free Creamer or Heavy Cream: Enhance flavor and achieve the desired consistency.

Toppings:

• Drizzle with additional caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
• Sprinkle with chocolate chips for a delightful crunch.
• Garnish with chopped pecans for a nutty finish.

Instructions: How to make Turtle Cupcakes:

1. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare Cupcake Batter: Whisk together dry ingredients, then add wet ingredients and boiling water for a smooth consistency.
3. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide batter among paper-lined muffin cups.
4. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 16-18 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Make the Caramel Buttercream Frosting: Cream softened vegan or regular butter until pale and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sweetener or sugar, mixing until combined. Incorporate 1/3 cup caramel sauce for a rich flavor. Add vanilla and cream. Beat on medium-high speed until the frosting achieves a light and fluffy consistency.
6. Cool and Frost: Once cupcakes are cooled, pipe the frosting onto them using a pastry bag.
7. Optional toppings: Enhance with optional toppings like chocolate chips, chopped pecans, and a caramel sauce drizzle. Serve and enjoy.

Tips for Success:

• Accurate Measurements: Measure ingredients accurately for the perfect balance.
• Room Temperature Egg: Ensure your egg is at room temperature for optimal blending.
• Gradually Mix: Whisk the boiling water gradually for a smooth batter.
• Cool Completely: Allow the chocolate salted caramel cupcakes to cool completely before frosting for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions:

• Coffee: Pair  these caramel chocolate cupcakes with a glass of cold brew coffee or your favorite cup of coffee, tea or hot drink to indulge after a savory meal.
• Celebrations: Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or a delightful afternoon treat.
• Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Nuts: Experiment with different nuts like walnuts or almonds.
• Flavored creamers: Try flavored creams for a unique twist in the frosting.
• Salt: Add a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty combination.

Storage, Make-Ahead, and Freezer Options:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the cupcakes and frosting ahead; assemble before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of gluten-free baking flour?

Absolutely! If you’re not following a gluten-free diet, feel free to substitute with regular all-purpose flour or finely ground oat flour for equally delicious Chocolate Turtle Cupcakes.

Q2: Is there a specific brand for the gluten-free baking flour?

We recommend using Bob’s Red Mill for gluten-free baking flour, ensuring a reliable and consistent result. However, you can explore other trusted gluten-free brands available in your region.

Q3: Can I replace pure maple sugar with a sugar substitute?

Certainly! Opt for granulated monk fruit sweetener for a lower sugar, lower carb option, or use regular granulated sugar if you prefer a traditional sweetness.

Q4: How long does the frosting stay fresh?

The caramel buttercream frosting stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, refrigerate and bring it to room temperature before use.

Q5: Can I freeze the cupcakes with the frosting?

While we recommend freezing unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months, freezing already frosted cupcakes is not ideal. The texture of the frosting may be compromised upon thawing.

Q6: Can I use a different nut for toppings?

Absolutely! Customize your Turtle Cupcakes by experimenting with different nuts like walnuts or almonds for a delightful variation in texture and flavor.

Q7: Can I make the cupcakes and frosting ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the cupcakes and frosting in advance, refrigerate them separately, and assemble before serving for a convenient make-ahead option.

Q8: Can I use regular dairy butter in the frosting?

Certainly! If you’re not following a vegan or dairy-free diet, regular unsalted butter works perfectly for that classic buttercream flavor.

Q9: Are these cupcakes suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely! Whether it’s a birthday, holiday celebration, or a sweet indulgence after a meal, Turtle Cupcakes add a delightful touch to any special occasion.

Q10: How do I store the cupcakes?

Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If frosted, refrigerate and bring to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

More delicious cupcake recipes you will love:

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupcakes

Strawberry Vanilla Cupcakes

5 from 6 votes

Print

Turtle Cupcakes

Prep Time

15 mins

Cook Time

18 mins

Total Time

33 mins

 

These Turtle Cupcakes are the perfect decadent treat if you are a fan of chocolate turtles with sweet gooey caramel and crunchy pecans in every bite. These chocolate cupcakes are deliciously moist, rich and promise a delectable escape into chocolatey bliss with the perfect harmony of ingredients in every bite.

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Keyword: chocolate cupcake recipe, turtle dessert recipes

Servings: 12 cupcakes

Calories: 280 kcal

Author: Kelly

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 cup gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour , such as Bob's Red Mill. You can also sub with gluten-free finely ground oat flour or all purpose flour if you're not gluten-free.
• 3/4 cup granulated pure maple sugar , you can also sub with granulated monk fruit sweetener for a lower sugar / lower carb option or just regular granulated sugar.
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg , room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk , or preferred milk of choice
• 1/4 cup avocado oil , you can also sub with melted coconut oil or any neutral oil of your choice.
• 1/2 cup boiling water

Caramel Buttercream Frosting:

• 3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) vegan butter , softened to room temperature. Regular unsalted butter works too if you're not dairy-free.
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sweetener (such as powdered monk fruit or powdered Swerve) or any powdered sugar of your choice
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce , homemade or your favorite brand.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp dairy-free creamer (such as Nut Pods or Silk) or heavy cream, if you're not dairy-free

Toppings

• caramel sauce
• chocolate chips
• chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

2. Mix in the egg, vanilla, milk, and vegetable oil until combined. Whisk in boiling water until smooth and incorporated.

   Divide batter among 12 paper lined muffin cups, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake in preheated oven for 16-18 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean and tops spring back.

   Remove from oven and allow to cool in pan for about 10 minutes before cooling completely on wire rack prior to adding frosting.

3. Meanwhile, make the frosting: In a bowl using a stand mixer or your hand mixer, cream butter on medium-high speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 - 4 minutes.

   Beat in powdered sugar and slowly mix on low speed until mixture comes together. Add caramel sauce then vanilla and beat on medium-high speed. Add cream, 1 tablespoon at a time until light and fluffy or desired consistency is reached.

4. Fill a pastry bag with frosting and pipe onto cupcakes. Top with optional chocolate chips, chopped pecans and drizzle with caramel sauce.

Recipe Notes

How to store:

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the cupcakes and frosting ahead; assemble before serving.
• Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost when ready to serve.

Nutrition Facts

Turtle Cupcakes

Amount Per Serving (1 serving)

Calories 280 Calories from Fat 45

% Daily Value*

Fat 5g8%

Carbohydrates 57g19%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 47g52%

Protein 2g4%

* Nutrition facts are provided as a courtesy using the WPRM recipe calculator. It is best to make your own calculations to ensure accuracy. We expressly disclaim any and all liability of any kind with respect to any act or omission wholly or in part in reliance on anything contained in this website. Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.