Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters that you can easily make at home. These sweet, gooey clusters are packed with rich chocolate, crunchy pecans, and chewy caramel—just like the classic turtle candies!
Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves (about 8 oz)
- 1 cup caramel (you can use soft caramel candies or pre-made caramel sauce)
- 8 oz semisweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate if you prefer)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions:
- Toast the pecans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through. Watch closely to avoid burning. Once done, set aside to cool.
- Melt the caramel:
- If using caramel candies, unwrap them and melt them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a tablespoon of water to help the melting process. Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring each time until the caramel is smooth and fully melted. If using pre-made caramel sauce, heat it gently in a saucepan or microwave until it becomes pourable.
- Melt the chocolate:
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted.
- Assemble the clusters:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.
- Begin by placing a small spoonful of melted caramel on the baking sheet. Top it with 4-5 toasted pecan halves, arranging them in a cluster. Repeat with the remaining caramel and pecans, making as many clusters as desired.
- Top with chocolate:
- Spoon melted chocolate over each cluster, covering the pecans and caramel completely. Use the back of the spoon to spread the chocolate evenly.
- Let them set:
- Allow the clusters to cool and set at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or place them in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process.
- Serve and enjoy:
- Once the chocolate has set, the turtle clusters are ready to enjoy! They can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.
Tips for Success:
- Customize: Feel free to add a pinch of sea salt on top of the clusters before the chocolate hardens to enhance the flavor.
- Caramel options: If you’d prefer to make homemade caramel sauce, it’s easy with sugar, butter, and cream, but using store-bought is a quick and foolproof option.
- Variety: You can swap the pecans for other nuts like cashews, walnuts, or almonds, depending on your taste preference.
These chocolate pecan turtle clusters are the perfect treat for any occasion—sweet, salty, crunchy, and utterly irresistible! Enjoy!