Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only three main ingredients—pecans, caramels, and chocolate—making it easy to prepare.
- Quick Preparation: With minimal cooking time, you can whip up a batch in under an hour.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to suit your taste preferences by choosing different types of chocolate or adding a sprinkle of sea salt.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces soft caramels (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 ounces pecan halves, toasted
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and lightly spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange the Pecans: Place the pecans in clusters of four on the prepared sheet, with each pecan pointing in a different direction to resemble turtle legs.
- Melt the Caramels: Unwrap the caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. If they are very stiff, add a spoonful of water to soften. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until melted and smooth.
- Add Caramel to Pecans: Allow the caramel to cool slightly, then spoon a small amount over each pecan cluster, ensuring it covers the nuts but still shows some edges.
- Melt the Chocolate: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth.
- Cover with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel layer on each cluster, letting it drip down the sides and cover the caramel completely.
- Set the Candies: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate and caramel to set fully.
- Serve: For the best taste and texture, serve the turtle candies at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 24 turtle candies
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Setting Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Options: Experiment with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or white chocolate to suit your taste.
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute pecans with almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different flavor profile.
- Sea Salt Turtles: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets for a sweet and salty treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the turtle candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For extended freshness, keep them in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: These candies are best enjoyed at room temperature. If refrigerated, allow them to sit out for about 10 minutes before serving to soften slightly.
FAQs
What are turtle candies?
Turtle candies are confections made with pecans, caramel, and chocolate, named for their turtle-like shape.
Can I use homemade caramel?
Yes, homemade caramel can be used and may enhance the flavor of the candies.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Ensure all utensils are dry, and avoid overheating the chocolate to prevent it from seizing.
Can I add toppings to the turtles?
Yes, toppings like sea salt, crushed nuts, or drizzled white chocolate can be added for extra flavor and decoration.
How should I package these for gifts?
Place the candies in decorative boxes or tins lined with parchment paper for gifting.
Can I freeze turtle candies?
Yes, they can be frozen in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What type of chocolate is best to use?
High-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate is recommended, but milk chocolate can also be used based on preference.
Do I need to toast the pecans?
Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor but is optional.
How can I make the caramel easier to work with?
Adding a small amount of water and microwaving the caramels in short intervals can help achieve a smoother consistency.
Are there any nut-free alternatives?
For a nut-free version, consider using pretzels or sunflower seeds as a substitute for pecans.
Conclusion
Homemade turtle candies are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of pecans, caramel, and chocolate. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they make for a perfect homemade gift or a sweet indulgence to enjoy any time.
Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel
- Total Time: 1 hour (including setting time)
- Yield: Approximately 24 candies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the perfect blend of crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate with this homemade turtle candy recipe. Simple to make and ideal for gifting or a sweet treat, these candies are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces soft caramels (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 ounces pecan halves, toasted
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange the Pecans: Place pecans in clusters of four on the sheet, with each pecan pointing in a different direction like turtle legs.
- Melt the Caramels: Unwrap caramels and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Add a spoonful of water if needed.
- Add Caramel to Pecans: Cool slightly, then spoon caramel over each cluster, leaving edges of the pecans visible.
- Melt the Chocolate: Microwave chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Cover with Chocolate: Spoon melted chocolate over each caramel layer, ensuring coverage.
- Set the Candies: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve: Allow candies to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Toasting the pecans adds extra flavor but is optional.
- Sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate for a sweet and salty twist.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
