Description
These Homemade Chocolate Turtles are decadent caramel pecan clusters dipped in rich chocolate, combining buttery caramel, toasted pecans, and smooth melted chocolate for a classic, irresistible treat perfect for gifting or indulging.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramel Base
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Nuts
- 2 cups pecan halves
Chocolate Coating
- 16 oz almond bark or high quality chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F to prepare for toasting the pecans.
- Toast and Chop Pecans: Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-10 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant but not burned. Alternatively, toast them in a hot skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes. Let cool, then roughly chop and set aside.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat liner and set aside to form the caramel mounds later.
- Make Caramel: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and light corn syrup. Microwave the mixture on HIGH for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches about 235°F or passes the soft ball stage using an ice water bath test.
- Ice Water Bath Test: Drop a small spoonful of caramel into a cup of ice water. Pinch it with fingers; it should form a soft ball. If not, microwave for an additional 30 seconds and test again.
- Add Flavor and Pecans: Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave with hot pads. Stir in vanilla extract and the chopped toasted pecans until evenly combined.
- Form Caramel Mounds: Using a large spoon, drop spoonfuls of the caramel-pecan mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming roughly 20 mounds. Refrigerate for about 20 minutes to set.
- Melt Chocolate: Melt the almond bark or chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, or using a double boiler, until smooth and fully melted.
- Dip Clusters: Using a fork, dip each pecan caramel mound into the melted chocolate, coating thoroughly. Lift and tap the fork over the bowl gently to allow excess chocolate to drip off. Place dipped turtles back on the parchment paper to set.
- Store: Once set, store the chocolate turtles in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2-3 weeks.
Notes
- Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch — be careful not to burn them.
- Use a candy thermometer or ice water test to ensure caramel reaches the proper soft ball stage for perfect texture.
- Almond bark is easier for melting and coating but high-quality chocolate adds richer flavor.
- Refrigerate the caramel mounds before dipping to make handling easier.
- Store turtles in a cool place to prevent melting and extend shelf life.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Microwaving
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chocolate turtles, homemade candy, caramel pecans, festive treats, easy candy recipe
