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Chocolate Turtle Candy Recipe

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4.2 from 10 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes (including cooling and setting time)
  • Yield: 16 servings

Description

This homemade Chocolate Turtle Candy recipe combines toasted pecans, creamy caramel, and smooth milk chocolate to create irresistible bite-sized treats. Perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet indulgence, these classic candies offer a delicious balance of nutty crunch and gooey caramel wrapped in rich chocolate.

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces (227g) pecan halves (about 2 cups)
  • 1 bag (11 ounces/312g) soft caramels, unwrapped
  • ¼ cup (60mL) heavy cream
  • 1 bag (11.5 ounces/326g) milk chocolate chips (about 2 cups)

Instructions

  1. Toast Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350ºF (177ºC). Spread the pecans out on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until they darken slightly and become fragrant. Alternatively, toast in a large saucepan on the stovetop over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove and let cool.
  2. Melt Caramel Mixture: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Heat on HIGH in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
  4. Mix Pecans and Caramel: Coarsely chop the cooled pecans and stir them into the caramel mixture until evenly incorporated.
  5. Form Caramel Clusters: Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the caramel-pecan mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them evenly (about 8 per sheet). Use a #50 cookie scoop if available.
  6. Melt Chocolate: Melt the milk chocolate chips using your preferred method: microwave, stovetop, or double boiler, until smooth.
  7. Top with Chocolate: Spoon 2-3 teaspoons of melted chocolate onto each caramel cluster. Use the back of a spoon or mini scoop to swirl the chocolate decoratively. Optionally, top with flaky sea salt or additional pecan pieces.
  8. Set Candy: Allow the candies to firm up by refrigerating for about 30 minutes or freezing for 10 minutes to make them easier to handle.
  9. Cut and Store: Cut the parchment paper into individual squares around each candy and store the turtles on their parchment squares in the refrigerator. Let sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
  10. Storage Advice: Store homemade turtles in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed in the fridge.

Notes

  • Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds crunch to the candy.
  • Heating the caramel and cream mixture slowly and stirring frequently ensures a smooth, lump-free caramel.
  • Using parchment paper makes cleanup easy and helps keep the candies from sticking.
  • Add flaky sea salt or extra pecan pieces on top for an added flavor dimension.
  • Refrigerating helps the chocolate to set firmly while keeping the caramel delightfully gooey.
  • Store candies properly to maintain texture and freshness; refrigeration is recommended.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://sarabaking.com/chocolate-turtle-candy-recipe/