✨ A Short, Perfect Introduction
These Homemade Turtle Candies are simple to make, but taste like they came straight from a fancy chocolate shop! 🌰🍬 With toasted pecans, rich buttery caramel, and silky melted chocolate on top, they’re a nostalgic, elegant treat that’s always a crowd favorite — especially during the holidays!
📋 Prep Time: 20 minutes
❄️ Chill Time: 30 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 50 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 24 pieces
🔥 Calories per Serving: 170 kcal
🛒 Ingredients
- 🌰 2 cups pecan halves, toasted
- 🍬 1 bag (11 oz) soft caramels (about 35 pieces), unwrapped
- 🥛 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 🍫 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)
- 🧂 Optional: flaky sea salt for topping
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Toast the Pecans:
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Spread pecan halves 🌰 on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
2️⃣ Arrange Pecans:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange 3–4 pecan halves in a cluster to resemble turtle legs — you’ll make 24 clusters total.
3️⃣ Melt the Caramel:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels 🍬 and heavy cream 🥛. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes total).
4️⃣ Add the Caramel:
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of warm caramel over the center of each pecan cluster. Let cool and firm slightly (10–15 minutes at room temp or pop into the fridge for faster setting).
5️⃣ Melt the Chocolate:
Melt chocolate chips 🍫 in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth. Spoon or drizzle about 1 teaspoon of chocolate over each caramel cluster to cover.
6️⃣ Chill and Set:
Let candies set at room temp for 30 minutes or chill in the fridge until firm. ❄️
7️⃣ Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt 🧂 before the chocolate sets for an elevated touch — optional but delicious!
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A classic combo of pecans, caramel, and chocolate — always a winner! 🥇
- No baking required, just melting and assembling! 🔥
- Great for gifting, cookie trays, and sweet tooth emergencies! 🎁🍬
- So much better (and fresher) than store-bought! 💛
🔥 Helpful Tips
- Use soft caramels like Kraft or Werther’s — they melt easily and smoothly!
- For extra richness, use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet 🍫
- Want a shortcut? Use pre-toasted pecans or melt caramel bits instead of wrapped ones
- Store in an airtight container at room temp for 5 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life ❄️
Leave a Reply