This Sweet Potato Casserole is made with roasted sweet potatoes, vanilla and cinnamon and a praline topping – a delicious Thanksgiving side dish! Sweet Potato Casserole Elevate your Thanksgiving table with this irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole! Roas…
This Sweet Potato Casserole is made with roasted sweet potatoes, vanilla and cinnamon and a praline topping – a delicious Thanksgiving side dish! Sweet Potato Casserole Elevate your Thanksgiving table with this irresistible Sweet Potato Casserole! Roasted sweet potatoes are blended with warm vanilla and fragrant cinnamon, creating a creamy, perfectly spiced base. Topped with […]
These Turtle Cookies are my absolute favorite way to doctor my chocolate chip cookie recipe! You just add a Rolo and a pecan and you have cookies inspired by Turtle Candy – the perfect easy recipe! My mom loves Turtles – the candy, that is. Turtle candy is a chocolate and caramel confection with pecans.…
These Turtle Cookies are my absolute favorite way to doctor my chocolate chip cookie recipe! You just add a Rolo and a pecan and you have cookies inspired by Turtle Candy – the perfect easy recipe!
My mom loves Turtles – the candy, that is. Turtle candy is a chocolate and caramel confection with pecans. They get their name because their shape resembles a turtle: chocolate coated caramel “shell” with pecans sticking out around the edges. She’d get a box every so often and it would be gone in a day!
I originally made this cookie as a semi-homemade one using store bought cookie dough, but then I decided I needed to make it from scratch with my favorite chocolate chip cookie recipe! You could also use my double chocolate chip cookies for an even more turtle-like flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Butter: My favorite cookies start with melted butter.
Sugars: Both granulated suigar and packed brown sugar for the cookies.
Egg: Buy large eggs
Chocolate Chips: You can use your favorite! Semi-sweet chocolate chips from Trader Joe’s are my fav, but you can also use milk chocolate chips.
Rolos: You could also use Dove brand, or any chocolate caramel candy. I prefer Rolos and use them in lots of things (like Cookie Cups or Rolo Stuffed Oatmeal Cookies).
Pecans: I use pecan halves to make these the best turtle cookies!
How to Make Chocolate Turtle Cookies
Make the cookie dough by stirring the melted butter with sugars, then mix in egg, salt, vanilla, and baking soda. Stir in all-purpose flour then mix in chocolate chips. Use a cookie scoop to scoop 2-tablespoon size cookie dough balls. Chill at least 30 minutes.
Bake cold cookies until almost done (will still be a bit glossy on top). Place a Rolo on top of each cookie. Bake 1-2 additional minutes, or until the candy is starting to be melty.
Press a pecan on top the melting Rolo immediately after removing from oven. Let them chill to set on a baking sheet or wire rack.
Expert Tips
You can use pre-made cookie dough (like Pillsbury refrigerated dough) if you want.
Once you’ve made the cookies give them some time to set up. The melted Rolo needs to harden before you stack the cookies.
You might never go back to regular chocolate chip cookies after you try these turtle cookies! It’s one of my favorite ways to dress up store-bought cookie dough and no one will guess they’re not made from scratch! All that caramel, chocolate and pecans takes them to a whole new level.
Place melted butter in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or a large bowl if using a hand mixer or stirring by hand). Add granulated and brown sugars and mix on low speed until the mixture is smooth. Mix in egg and vanilla extract and mix on medium speed until combined.
Mix in baking soda and salt, then slowly mix in flour and mix just until the batter is smooth and comes together. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl during mixing. Slowly mix in chocolate chips.
Line a cookie sheet with a silicone baking mat or parchment paper. Scoop 2 tablespoon balls of dough onto the cookie sheet. Spacing doesn’t matter because you will be chilling the dough. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a second cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
Remove the chilled cookie dough balls from the refrigerator and space them 2-inches apart on the cookie sheets. Bake (2 tablespoon sized cookies) for 10-13 minutes (at this point they’re under done still but they will keep baking while the Rolo heats up). They should be almost done around the edges and just slightly glossy in the center.
Remove the pans from the oven and place an unwrapped Rolo in the center of each cookie. Return to the oven for 2-3 additional minutes, until the Rolo looks melty and the cookies are done. Immediately press a pecan on top the Rolo after removing pans from the oven.
Cool completely before removing from cookie sheets. Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for several days or freeze for a few months.
Video
Notes
You can use my chocolate chip cookie recipe OR use store bought OR a refrigerated cookie dough you’ve baked and cooled.
Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash and Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to make at home. The combination of tender tortellini, savory sausage, sweet butternut squash, and a rich, creamy sauce is pasta perfection. It basicall…
Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash and Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to make at home. The combination of tender tortellini, savory sausage, sweet butternut squash, and a rich, creamy sauce is pasta perfection. It basically feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the perfect meal for fall or…
This cranberry orange cheese danish is super easy but as delicious as a pastry from your favorite bakery. Buttery puff pastry, a quick cranberry jam, citrus cream cheese and an orange glaze make this irresistible. Perfect holiday breakfast! Best holiday breakfast, coming right up! This cranberry orange cheese danish is a dream. The pastry is […]
This cranberry orange cheese danish is super easy but as delicious as a pastry from your favorite bakery. Buttery puff pastry, a quick cranberry jam, citrus cream cheese and an orange glaze make this irresistible. Perfect holiday breakfast!
Best holiday breakfast, coming right up!
This cranberry orange cheese danish is a dream. The pastry is super flaky and buttery. The filling is creamy and citrusy. And the quick cranberry jam tastes like a holiday flavor explosion.
A few years ago I shared a lemon blueberry cheese danish and it’s become a staple for us. I usually make it in the spring months, but I’ve been dying to have a christmas-y version too.
Cranberry orange isn’t my favorite flavor, but everyone else in my life absolutely loves it. My kids, my mom – it’s often their muffin of choice.
The combination of tart cranberries with fresh and bright citrus mixed with a creamy filling… oh my gosh. It is SO good.
To make this, I use puff pastry, which by at this point I think you know I can’t live without. My favorite brands are the ones that come in a full sheet in the refrigerated section. Brands like wewalka and jus roll. I don’t love to use the frozen versions that come perforated already. It’s much easier to use a full sheet like this and it cooks up beautifully!
The danish is so flakey and buttery, the filling spreads evenly on the dough and you can make it for a big family for breakfast!
That’s my goal. I love it.
With the refrigerated puff pastry, you can also make this ahead of time (night before or morning of) and store it in the fridge. All you have to do is brush it with egg wash before baking.(more…)
Condensed Milk Pecan Balls
No bake Condensed Milk Pecan Balls are a delicious truffle-type treat that combines the rich, creamy texture of sweetened condensed milk with the crunch of pecans, all coated in melted chocolate. Perfect for the holidays when…
No bake Condensed Milk Pecan Balls are a delicious truffle-type treat that combines the rich, creamy texture of sweetened condensed milk with the crunch of pecans, all coated in melted chocolate. Perfect for the holidays when pecans are in season. Chocolate Covered Pecan Balls Our easy Condensed Milk Pecan Balls recipe comes together in under…
Get your taste buds fired up for the ultimate lineup of Grilled Appetizer Recipes that’ll have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds). Whether you’re gearing up for the big game, hosting a dinner party, or just chillin’ in the backyard, these flame-kissed easy apps are guaranteed to please.
Packed with bold flavors and epic bites, there’s a favorite easy appetizer for everyone here. From cheesy, melty goodness to finger foods that hit just right, these grilled appetizers are so freakin’ delicious, you won’t believe how easy they are to make.
When it comes to appetizers, there’s something about the smoky flavor from the grill that takes even the simplest ingredients to the next level. Grilled appetizers are perfect for any occasion because they’re:
Easy to Make – With just a handful of ingredients, you can create impressive, flavor-packed appetizers. Whether you’re whipping up something last minute for an easy weeknight dinner or planning perfect party appetizers for a big crowd, grilling delivers every time.
Great for Parties – The grill isn’t just for the main course—using it to make appetizers frees up your oven and creates a communal, fun vibe around the fire. Plus, the smoky flavor adds a gourmet touch to bite-sized appetizers.
Versatile – From meat to veggies to cheese, grilling levels up a variety of foods, offering an array of flavors that will wow your guests. You can pair these with delicious dips like a creamy BLT dip or a zesty jalapeño popper dip to keep things interesting.
General Tips on Making and Serving Grilled Appetizers
Grilling appetizers can be a breeze, but a few expert tips can elevate your appetizer game to a whole new level:
Prep Your Simple Ingredients – Have your appetizers prepped and ready to go before your guests arrive. Whether you’re using a food processor for dips or marinating your meats, preparation is key to making grilling a stress-free experience.
Use the Right Tools – Grilling small bites or delicate items can be tricky. Investing in grill mats, skewers, and cast-iron pans is a game changer. And, of course, I highly recommend the FYR Grill for all your grilling adventures. My newly designed rig is a reliable and yet totally portable workhorse that easily adapts to all your grilling needs.
Pair with Dips – Grilled foods pair perfectly with creamy or spicy dips. A cheesy dip with pepper jack cheese or a creamy salmon dip offers balance and variety.
Serve with Tortilla Chips – Pair your grilled appetizers with crispy tortilla chips for a fun finger food option that’s both crunchy and smoky.
The Grilled Appetizer Recipes Roundup
Ready to dive into the grill and make some easy appetizers? Below are some of the best appetizer recipes you’ll find for your next party. Whether you’re planning anything from the Fourth of July to a Christmas party or a tailgate to a birthday party – everyone will love these quick bites! They can be a snack or quick appetizers for an easy weeknight dinner! Favorful and super simple to make, these recipes won’t disappoint.
Jalapeño Poppers
Texas Twinkies
Create the ultimate appetizer with a delicious combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, leftover smoked brisket, whole jalapeño peppers, BBQ seasoning, and a touch of maple syrup.
When it comes to appetizers, unequivocally, nothing beats a grilled quesadilla. I mean, who can say no to flavorful meats, gooey melted cheese, and then all those killer toppings and dips? I know I can’t, and I’m willing to bet you can’t either!
Possibly, the most shareable of all dishes is a plate full of nachos. Now, these are so good you might not want to share the. So just make sure to make a big batch!
If you love nachos, then make sure to check out all my Best Nacho Recipes!
Steak Elote Nachos
Steak Elote Nachos bring the Mexican street food vibes to your backyard grill. Juicy steak, creamy elote corn, perfectly spiced, and all your favorite toppings create a fiesta to remember.
From some of the leftover brisket we cooked up earlier this week, we have these BBQ Brisket Nachos. Super easy and fun to put together so make sure to give it a try!
Well, the flavor options here are truly endless here. The great thing about wings is that you can make a massive amount of them without much extra work too!
Get ready to taste the best smoked and double-fried chicken wings ever, leveled up by Primal Kitchen's Buffalo Sauce and BBQ Sauce, made with familiar ingredients that are good for you!
Need a fun recipe thats a fun twist on a classic? Try these Smoked and Fried Sticky Wings on your Oklahoma Joe Smoker for an epic wing party in your backyard.
Similar to our nacho situation, loaded fires are easy to share and customized to your liking! Below are some of my favorites, but if you want even more on loaded fries check out my all Loaded Fries Recipes!
Cheese Fries with Chimichurri Steak
This loaded plate of fries has steak, zesty chimichurri sauce and melted cheese for the ultimate comfort food dinner.
Steak Fries with Shrimp is my idea of the best Loaded Surf and Turf Fries ever. When it comes to the best things I can make on my backyard grill, this hearty plate of fries ranks high on my list. So freakin' delicious!
Cowboy Butter Sliders are the ultimate comfort food. Tender sliced filets are slathered in the zesty spicy butter and paired with caramelized onions and gooey mozzarella cheese.
While cheese may be the king for dips (in my opinion), I definitely can’t write off some of these other delicious dips! Whatever your preference, don’t miss a change to step outside the norm and give one of these a try!
Jalapeño Popper Dip
Jalapeño popper dip is a spicy, cheesy appetizer — right in the middle of stuffed pizza crust — that's perfect for your next party.
For this killer dip, roasted in the Oklahoma Joe's Judge Charcoal Grill, hot buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, jalapenos, red onions, and cheese are melted and nestled into a killer pizza dough crust stuffed with more cheese.
Instead of dialing up for takeout pizza ahead of the football game, why not fire up the grill and make some pizza bread? It’s super easy and like 1,000 times more freakin’ delicious!
Chorizo Pizza Bread
Enjoy the spicy, savory flavors of chorizo in this easy, delicious pizza bread recipe.
You can’t go wrong with salmon bites packed with heart-healthy Omega 3 fatty acids. They’ve got that perfect mix of killer flavor and then just the right amount of class, making them a hit no matter the occasion.
Does salmon for dinner sound good? If so, make sure to check out my Best Salmon Recipes!
Hot Honey Salmon Bites
Smoked salmon bites are basted in a buttery, spicy, and sweet hot honey sauce, delivering a perfect kick.
By now, I hope that you’re absolutely sure that these bite-sized finger foods will make your next party unforgettable. The smoky, rich flavors, along with the fun nature of grilling, will make any gathering a memorable experience.
In other words, these grilled appetizers will hit the spot. Whether chowing down at a Christmas party or an easy weeknight dinner, you’ll be in food heaven. For flair, sprinkle them with fresh herbs for the best presentation. With all this variety on the table, get ready for an appetizer spread unlike any other.
And, if you’re on the hunt for more grilled appetizer recipes, I’ve got you covered. Before you fire up the grill, check out my latest roundups. They’ll hit all the right spots and then some.
Grilled Appetizers: How to Store Leftovers and Reheating
When it comes to grilled appetizers, they are always best on the day they are made. If you do have leftovers, here’s how you can store and reheat them:
Storing – Place your leftover appetizers in an airtight container in the fridge. Most grilled appetizers, like jalapeño poppers and loaded nachos, will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
Reheating – Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for about 10-15 minutes, or pop them back on the grill for a few minutes to bring back that charred flavor. For appetizers like dips, use a slow cooker or the stovetop to reheat slowly and evenly.
Freezing – You can freeze some appetizers for up to a month. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer. Reheat in the oven straight from frozen for best results.
FAQs for Easy Appetizer Recipes
How do you grill appetizers without them falling through the grill grates?
Grill mats or skewers are an excellent way to prevent small or delicate foods from falling through the grates. A cast-iron skillet is also perfect for grilling smaller items like onion rings.
Can I use an air fryer instead of a grill for these appetizers?
Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, an air fryer is a great alternative for many appetizers like jalapeño poppers or crispy nachos.
Can I prepare grilled appetizers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep many appetizers ahead of time. Dips can be made a day or two in advance. You can assemble jalapeño poppers and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill them.
What’s a Great healthy grilled appetizer?
Caprese skewers made with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are a great healthy snack option. You can also skewer up some veggies.
Get stoked for life
This sauce is FYR!
an all-new line created for live fire cooking
Born from a deep passion for food and flavor. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or live fire cooking around the world, we have what you need to transform every meal into an adventure.
One-pot pumpkin rice uses a combination of veg stock and coconut milk with heaps of real pumpkin for a creamy, comforting, tasty, and satisfying fall side dish!
One-pot pumpkin rice uses a combination of veg stock and coconut milk with heaps of real pumpkin for a creamy, comforting, tasty, and satisfying fall side dish!
My air fryer meatloaf is perfectly juicy and moist and cooks in just 20 minutes. It’s topped with the most flavor-packed glaze. Looking for more air fryer recipes with ground beef? Try my air fryer hamburgers and air fryer meatballs next. We are …
My air fryer meatloaf is perfectly juicy and moist and cooks in just 20 minutes. It’s topped with the most flavor-packed glaze. Looking for more air fryer recipes with ground beef? Try my air fryer hamburgers and air fryer meatballs next. We are a meatloaf-loving family; if there is one thing that grinds our gears,…
These Turtle Cookies are my absolute favorite way to doctor my chocolate chip cookie recipe! You just add a Rolo and a pecan and you have cookies inspired by Turtle Candy – the perfect easy recipe! My mom loves Turtles – the candy, that is. Turtle candy is a chocolate and caramel confection with pecans.…
Creamy Tortellini with Butternut Squash and Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to make at home. The combination of tender tortellini, savory sausage, sweet butternut squash, and a rich, creamy sauce is pasta perfection. It basically feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the perfect meal for fall or… 
My air fryer meatloaf is perfectly juicy and moist and cooks in just 20 minutes. It’s topped with the most flavor-packed glaze. Looking for more air fryer recipes with ground beef? Try my air fryer hamburgers and air fryer meatballs next. We are a meatloaf-loving family; if there is one thing that grinds our gears,…