Indulge your sweet tooth with these delicious homemade Turtle Candies, a classic treat combining the rich flavors of pecans, caramel, and semi-sweet chocolate. Perfect for holiday gifting, special occasions, or simply to satisfy your craving for something sweet, these candies are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to creating these delightful confections in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale: 1x | 2x | 3x
- 64 pecan halves
- 11 oz. baking/cooking caramels
- 1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Parchment paper or a silicone baking mat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pecans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the pecan halves in clusters of four on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet or silicone baking mat. Each cluster should resemble a turtle with four legs.
Step 2: Melt the Caramels
- In a microwave-safe bowl, add the unwrapped caramels.
- Microwave the caramels in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
- Using a spoon, carefully dollop about a teaspoon of melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster, ensuring that the caramel spreads slightly to hold the pecans together.
- Let the caramel-topped pecans sit until the caramel hardens, which should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Melt the Chocolate
- While the caramel is setting, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag, drizzle or dollop the melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, ensuring the caramel is covered.
- Let the chocolate-topped candies sit at room temperature or place them in the refrigerator until the chocolate hardens completely.
Step 4: Serve and Store
- Once the chocolate has set, remove the candies from the parchment paper or silicone mat.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Cooking Notes
- Caramels: Be careful not to overheat the caramels as they can burn quickly. Microwave in short intervals and stir frequently.
- Chocolate: Use good-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best flavor. You can also use dark chocolate for a richer taste.
- Pecans: Toasting the pecans before assembling the candies can enhance their flavor. Simply bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, until fragrant.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use other nuts instead of pecans? A: Yes, you can substitute pecans with almonds, walnuts, or cashews based on your preference.
Q: How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly? A: Work quickly when spooning the melted caramel onto the pecans, and keep the caramel warm by placing the bowl over a pot of hot water if necessary.
Q: Can I add sea salt to the candies? A: Absolutely! A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets adds a wonderful contrast to the sweetness.
Q: Can I make these candies ahead of time? A: Yes, these candies store well and can be made a few days in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Q: What if my caramel or chocolate is too thick? A: If the caramel or chocolate is too thick to work with, you can add a teaspoon of heavy cream to thin it out slightly.
Variations
Dark Chocolate Turtles
- Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate chips for a deeper, richer flavor.
Salted Caramel Turtles
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the caramel mixture and sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet and salty treat.
Turtle Bark
- Instead of making individual candies, spread the pecans and melted caramel on a baking sheet, drizzle with melted chocolate, and break into pieces once set.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly adaptation:
- Use sugar-free caramel and chocolate chips.
- Ensure the pecans are unsweetened and raw.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs:
- Use dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa.
- Substitute traditional caramel with a low-carb, sugar-free caramel sauce.
Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramels is a delightful treat that brings together the nutty flavor of pecans, the gooey sweetness of caramel, and the rich taste of semi-sweet chocolate. This recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings, gifting to loved ones, or adding to your holiday dessert platter. Easy to make and customize, these candies will quickly become a favorite in your household. Enjoy creating and sharing this wonderful recipe!
Stay tuned for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and culinary inspiration on our blog. Don’t forget to share your experiences and variations with us in the comments below!