The Best Homemade Turtle Candy With Pecans And Caramel Recipe

Crafting delectable homemade turtle candy brings pure delight to chocolate enthusiasts craving something special.

Sweet moments of indulgence await with this classic treat.

Pecans add a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements rich caramel layers.

Chocolate lovers understand the magic of combining smooth, melted chocolate with gooey caramel and toasted nuts.

Each bite promises a symphony of textures that dance across your palate.

Small batches of this confection create memorable experiences you’ll want to share.

Dive into this simple recipe and become a homemade candy master in minutes.

Why Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Is Irresistible

• Craft Delightful Treats: Create irresistible homemade candies that rival professional confections with simple ingredients and basic kitchen skills.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Prepare these turtle candies with just a few steps, requiring no advanced culinary techniques or specialized equipment.
• Perfect for Sweet Lovers: Combine rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans into a decadent dessert that satisfies every chocolate craving.
• Crowd-Pleasing Party Snack: Impress guests and family members with these gorgeous homemade candies that look and taste like gourmet chocolate treats.

Ingredients for Rich Homemade Turtle Candy

• Pecans: Crunchy nuts that form the foundation of each turtle candy cluster.

• Caramels: Sweet, chewy confection that provides a rich, gooey layer connecting the pecans.

• Chocolate Chips: Smooth chocolate that creates a delicious outer shell for the candy.
• Cooking Spray: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy removal of the candies from the baking sheet.

How to Make Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel

Step 1: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly coat with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents the candies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Craft Pecan Clusters

Carefully arrange clusters of whole pecans on the prepared baking sheet. Group them in small, compact clusters that will serve as the base of your turtle candies.

Step 3: Melt Creamy Caramel

Place caramels in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly to prevent burning, allowing the caramels to transform into a smooth, golden liquid.

Gently drizzle a spoonful of molten caramel over each pecan cluster.

Step 4: Transform Chocolate

Use a microwave-safe bowl to melt chocolate chips.

Heat in short 20-second bursts, stirring between each interval to ensure even melting and prevent scorching.

Step 5: Layer Chocolate Topping

Generously spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel-coated pecan clusters.

Ensure each cluster is completely covered for a decadent finish.

Step 6: Chill and Set

Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator.

Allow the candies to cool and solidify for approximately 30 minutes, or until the chocolate becomes completely firm.

Step 7: Indulge in Homemade Treats

Remove the turtle candies from the refrigerator.

Carefully peel them from the foil and serve. Enjoy the rich combination of crunchy pecans, smooth caramel, and creamy chocolate.

Tips to Get Perfect Texture in Turtle Candy

• Prep your baking sheet with foil and cooking spray to ensure easy candy removal and prevent sticking.
• Create perfect pecan clusters by arranging them evenly, allowing each bite to have consistent nutty crunch.
• Melt caramels slowly over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning and achieve smooth, creamy texture.
• Use microwave-safe bowl for chocolate melting, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent scorching and create glossy finish.
• Chill candies in refrigerator for precise 30-minute setting time, which helps chocolate harden and flavors meld beautifully.

Variations to Switch Up Your Turtle Candy

• Nutty Almond Surprise: Replace pecans with roasted almonds for a crunchy, different flavor profile.
• Dark Chocolate Decadence: Swap milk chocolate chips with dark chocolate for a richer, more intense taste.
• Vegan Caramel Clusters: Use dairy-free caramel sauce and vegan chocolate chips with cashew clusters for a plant-based version.
• Salted Caramel Edition: Sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate layer to enhance the sweet and salty combination.

What Pairs Well with Turtle Candy Treats

• Brew Bold Coffee Complement: Dark roast or espresso cuts through the sweetness, balancing the rich turtle candies with its robust, slightly bitter flavor profile.
• Select Smooth Bourbon Pairing: Aged bourbon's warm caramel and vanilla notes harmonize perfectly with the candy's buttery pecan and chocolate textures.
• Enhance Dessert Experience with Port Wine: Sweet, velvety port wine echoes the chocolate's depth while complementing the caramel's golden richness.

How to Store Turtle Candy for Freshness

Place turtle candies in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper to prevent sticking. Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.

Store in a cool, dry place in a sealed container for 3-5 days, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Wrap individual candies in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation.

Let frozen candies thaw at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to maintain their original texture and flavor.

FAQs

• What ingredients do I need for turtle candies?

You’ll need pecans, caramels, chocolate chips, and cooking spray. These simple ingredients create the classic turtle candy with three delicious layers.

• Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work great as substitutes. Choose your favorite nut to customize the flavor while maintaining the classic turtle candy texture.

• How do I prevent the caramel from burning?

Melt caramels over low heat and stir frequently. Keep the heat gentle and watch the caramel closely to avoid scorching or burning the mixture.

• Why do I need to refrigerate the candies?

Refrigeration helps the chocolate set quickly and creates a firm, crisp chocolate coating. It also helps the layers stick together and makes the candies easier to handle and eat.

Homemade Turtle Candy With Pecans And Caramel Recipe

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4.6 from 24 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Irresistible Homemade Turtle Candy combines rich chocolate, creamy caramel, and crunchy pecans into a delightful sweet treat. Chocolate lovers will savor each indulgent bite of this classic confection that brings pure dessert magic to your kitchen.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 6 ounces (170 grams) pecans
• 12 ounces (340 grams) caramels
• 8 ounces (227 grams) chocolate chips

Binding/Coating Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon water

Preparation Ingredients:

• Cooking spray or parchment paper (for lining)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

1. Prepare a baking sheet by lining with aluminum foil and applying a light coating of non-stick spray to ensure easy candy removal.
2. Create circular clusters of pecans on the prepared surface, spacing them evenly to allow for caramel and chocolate coating.
3. Gently heat caramels in a saucepan over low temperature, stirring consistently to prevent scorching and achieve a smooth, liquid consistency.
4. Carefully drizzle warm caramel over each pecan cluster, ensuring complete coverage and allowing excess to pool around the nuts.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, using short 20-second intervals and stirring between each heating cycle to prevent burning.
6. Pour melted chocolate generously over the caramel-coated pecan clusters, creating an even and glossy layer that completely covers the caramel.
7. Transfer the baking sheet to the refrigerator and chill for approximately 30 minutes until the chocolate sets completely and becomes firm.
8. Remove candies from the refrigerator, allow to rest at room temperature for 2-3 minutes, then carefully separate from the foil using a thin spatula.
9. Serve and savor the rich, decadent homemade turtle candies with their perfect blend of crunchy pecans, smooth caramel, and silky chocolate.

Notes

• Use parchment paper as an alternative to foil for easier candy removal and cleaner presentation.
• Add a splash of heavy cream while melting caramels to create smoother, more luxurious texture that spreads more easily.
• Use a double boiler instead of microwave for more controlled, even chocolate melting to avoid potential burning or seizing.
• Swap regular chocolate with dairy-free chocolate chips and use vegan caramel alternatives to make these turtle candies suitable for plant-based diets.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Melting
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 258
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 40 mg
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 5 mg