Description
This Homemade Chocolate Turtles recipe features clusters of toasted pecans covered in rich, gooey caramel and smooth, melted chocolate. Perfect as a sweet treat or a thoughtful gift, these delightful candies combine crunchy, chewy, and creamy textures with an optional sprinkle of sea salt for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups pecan halves (toasted)
- 1 cup soft caramel candies (unwrapped)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy. Arrange small clusters of 3-4 toasted pecan halves in groups, leaving space between each cluster for easy handling later.
- Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring after each interval until the caramel is fully melted and has a smooth consistency.
- Assemble Caramel Layer: Spoon the melted caramel onto each pecan cluster, ensuring the nuts are covered but leaving some edges exposed to maintain texture contrast.
- Chill Caramel: Place the baking sheet with caramel-covered pecans in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow the caramel to firm up and set properly.
- Melt Chocolate: Using a clean microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second increments, stirring thoroughly each time to achieve a smooth, even melt without burning.
- Top with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel-covered pecan cluster, spreading it evenly to fully cover the caramel layer. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance flavor.
- Set Chocolate: Allow the chocolate turtles to set at room temperature. For quicker setting, refrigerate until the chocolate hardens completely. Once set, the turtles are ready to enjoy or package for gifts.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes until fragrant, stirring once halfway through.
- Use soft caramel candies for easy melting; avoid hard caramel or candies with additional coatings.
- If you prefer a sweeter or milkier flavor, choose milk chocolate chips; for a richer taste, use semi-sweet chocolate.
- Chilling the caramel layer before adding chocolate helps prevent mixing and keeps distinct layers.
- Store completed turtles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
