Description

Homemade Chocolate Turtles are a delightful treat featuring clusters of toasted pecan halves smothered in rich, gooey caramel and coated with smooth, melted chocolate. These bite-sized candies are perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet snack, offering a perfect balance of crunchy nuts, creamy caramel, and decadent chocolate with an optional hint of sea salt to elevate the flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Nut Clusters

1 1/2 cups pecan halves (toasted)

Caramel Layer

1 cup soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Chocolate Coating

1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
Sea salt (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare Pecan Clusters: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange small clusters of 3 to 4 toasted pecan halves on it, leaving enough space between each cluster for coating.
Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine unwrapped caramel candies with heavy cream. Heat in 20-second intervals, stirring well after each, until the mixture is completely melted and smooth.
Coat Pecans with Caramel: Spoon the melted caramel over each pecan cluster, ensuring the nuts are covered while allowing some edges to remain exposed for texture.
Set Caramel: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the caramel layer to firm up and set properly.
Melt Chocolate: Using a clean microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring thoroughly until smooth and glossy.
Chocolate Coating: Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel-covered pecan cluster, spreading it evenly to cover the caramel layer completely. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the flavor contrast.
Final Setting: Let the chocolate turtles sit at room temperature until the chocolate hardens, or place them in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process. Once fully set, they are ready to enjoy or package as gifts.

Notes

To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes until fragrant, watching carefully to prevent burning.
If desired, use dark chocolate for a richer flavor or milk chocolate for a sweeter taste.
Caramel melting times can vary depending on the microwave wattage; stir frequently to avoid burning.
Sea salt is optional but adds a wonderful contrast that enhances the candy’s sweetness.
Store finished turtles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, or in the refrigerator for longer keeping.