Description
Delight in these homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, a luscious blend of toasted pecans, rich caramel, and smooth semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for holiday gifting or a sweet treat, these no-bake clusters combine the classic flavors of turtles candy with an easy preparation that sets quickly at room temperature or in the fridge.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 bag (11 oz) soft caramels (about 35 caramels)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening
- Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the pecans in small clusters of 3–4 halves each, spacing them a few inches apart to allow room for caramel and chocolate.
- Melt the caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.
- Assemble the caramel layer: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the melted caramel over each pecan cluster, letting it spread slightly to bind the nuts together. Allow the caramel to set for 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
- Melt the chocolate: While the caramel sets, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips together with the coconut oil in the microwave using 30-second bursts, stirring well after each interval until smooth.
- Finish the clusters: Spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecan clusters, covering them completely or leaving some caramel visible for contrast. Optionally, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each cluster for enhanced flavor.
- Set the clusters: Let the clusters sit at room temperature or refrigerate until the chocolate is firm and set. Once hardened, they are ready to enjoy or store.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- To add a fun twist, substitute white chocolate for the topping.
- Store clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, or refrigerate to maintain freshness longer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
