Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel is a delightful treat that combines the crunch of pecans, the sweetness of caramel, and the richness of chocolate. It’s a simple yet elegant confection that’s perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet snack. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 12 ounces soft caramels (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 ounces pecans (halves, toasted)
- 8 ounces chocolate (semi-sweet, chips are fine)
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Assemble all your ingredients so they’re ready to use.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper and spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
- Arrange Pecans: Place the pecan halves in clusters of four on the prepared sheet, with each pecan pointing outwards like the legs of a turtle. Alternatively, drop them in small clusters.
- Melt Caramels: Unwrap the caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. If they’re stiff, add a bit of water for a softer final texture. Microwave until melted, stirring every 30 seconds.
- Cool Caramel Slightly: Allow the caramel to cool just a bit so it’s not too hot, then spoon a dollop onto each pecan cluster. Don’t worry about perfection – a rustic look is part of their charm.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips either in the microwave or using a double boiler.
- Add Chocolate Layer: Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel layer, letting it drip down the sides and nudging it to cover the caramel fully.
- Chill to Set: Place the tray in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate and caramel.
- Serving and Storage: Serve the turtle candies at room temperature for the best flavor and texture. Extras can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or at a cool room temperature for up to two weeks.
Enjoy your homemade turtle candies! They are a perfect mix of textures and flavors that are sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.