Indulge in the delightful combination of crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate with these homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters. This classic confection, reminiscent of the traditional Turtles candy, offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Whether you’re preparing treats for the holidays, special occasions, or simply craving a decadent snack, these clusters are sure to impress.en.wikipedia.org+1simplyrecipes.com+1
Ingredients
To create approximately 24 turtle clusters, gather the following ingredients:
- 48 pecan halves (about 1 ½ cups)
- 28 individually wrapped soft caramel candies
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- 1 ¼ cups semisweet chocolate chips (e.g., Ghirardelli)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)dallasfarmersmarket.org+3self.com+3thecaglediaries.com+3thecaglediaries.com+2smalltownwoman.com+2ineskohl.info+2
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pecans:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the pecan halves in clusters of four, resembling a turtle’s legs and head.
- Ensure there’s enough space between each cluster to accommodate the caramel and chocolate.tastesbetterfromscratch.com+4ineskohl.info+4smalltownwoman.com+4thecaglediaries.com+2smalltownwoman.com+2ineskohl.info+2
2. Melt the Caramel:
- Unwrap the caramel candies and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Add the heavy cream to the bowl.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.self.com+2ineskohl.info+2smalltownwoman.com+2
3. Assemble the Clusters:
- Spoon approximately 1 to 1½ teaspoons of the melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster, ensuring it touches all the pecans to hold them together.
- Allow the caramel to set at room temperature for about 10 minutes.jamiecooksitup.net
4. Melt the Chocolate:
- In another microwave-safe bowl, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using).
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
5. Top with Chocolate:
- Spoon about 1 to 1½ teaspoons of the melted chocolate over each caramel-covered pecan cluster, spreading it gently to cover the caramel.
- Let the clusters sit at room temperature until the chocolate sets, approximately 30 minutes.
Tips for Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality chocolate and fresh pecans for the best flavor.
- Caramel Consistency: If the caramel is too thick, add a bit more cream to achieve a pourable consistency.
- Storage: Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks.
Variations
- Sea Salt Turtles: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate before it sets for a sweet and salty twist.
- Dark Chocolate: Substitute semisweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
- Nut Alternatives: Try using almonds or cashews in place of pecans for a different nutty profile.ineskohl.info
Conclusion
These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a delightful treat that combines the crunch of pecans, the chewiness of caramel, and the smoothness of chocolate into one irresistible bite. Simple to make and even easier to enjoy, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family or savoring on your own. Give this recipe a try and experience the homemade goodness that rivals any store-bought candy.