🍫 Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel
Ingredients (Makes ~20 candies):
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1½ cups pecan halves (toasted if desired)
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20 soft caramels (like Kraft or Werther’s), unwrapped
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1 tbsp heavy cream or milk (to soften caramel)
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1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
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1 tsp coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smooth melting)
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Optional: coarse sea salt for sprinkling
🧁 Instructions:
1. Arrange Pecans:
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Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
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Place 3–4 pecan halves in a clover or “X” shape per candy — these are the “legs” of the turtle.
2. Melt Caramel:
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In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels and cream.
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Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes total).
3. Add Caramel:
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Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster.
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Let sit at room temp or refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm up.
4. Melt Chocolate:
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In another microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips and oil (if using) in 30-second intervals until smooth.
5. Top with Chocolate:
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Spoon or drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel layer to cover.
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Optional: sprinkle with sea salt before chocolate sets.
6. Let Set:
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Chill in fridge for about 20–30 minutes until firm.
🧊 Storage:
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Keep in an airtight container at room temp for 1 week, or refrigerated for 2–3 weeks.
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Freeze for up to 3 months (layer with parchment to prevent sticking).
🔄 Variations:
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Swap pecans for cashews or almonds.
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Use dark chocolate or white chocolate instead of milk.
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Add a small toffee piece or a pinch of cinnamon for a twist.
Would you like a no-bake version using caramel sauce, a keto-friendly variation, or a way to gift-package them for holidays?
