Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a decadent treat that combines crunchy toasted pecans, chewy caramel, and rich melted chocolate. They’re bite-sized candies that look fancy but are actually very simple to make at home. These homemade clusters are perfect for holidays, parties, or gifting to friends and family.
Prep Time
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking/Assembly: 15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Microwave-safe bowl (or double boiler)
- Spoon or small scoop
- Heatproof spatula
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves (toasted for best flavor)
- 1 bag (11 oz) soft caramel candies (about 35 caramels)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (or milk chocolate, if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother chocolate)
- Sea salt flakes (optional, for topping)
Ingredient Notes
- Pecans: Toasting enhances flavor and crunch. Spread on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes.
- Caramel: Use store-bought caramel candies for convenience, or homemade caramel for a richer taste.
- Chocolate: You can use semi-sweet, milk, or even dark chocolate depending on your sweetness preference.
- Sea salt: Adds a gourmet touch and balances the sweetness.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the baking sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Arrange clusters of 3–4 pecans together, leaving space between each group.
Step 2: Melt the caramel
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel candies and heavy cream. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
Step 3: Add caramel to pecans
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel over each pecan cluster, making sure it spreads enough to “glue” the pecans together. Let cool for 5–10 minutes.
Step 4: Melt the chocolate
Melt the chocolate chips with shortening (if using) in the microwave or over a double boiler until smooth and glossy.
Step 5: Cover with chocolate
Spoon melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, covering them completely. Smooth the tops with a spatula if needed.
Step 6: Optional finishing touch
Sprinkle with sea salt flakes before the chocolate sets for a salty-sweet flavor.
Step 7: Set and serve
Allow clusters to set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm. Once set, transfer to an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts (per cluster, approx.)
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 2g
Tips and Variations
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Gifting Idea: Wrap clusters in candy bags or decorative boxes for holidays.
- Nut Variations: Try almonds, cashews, or walnuts instead of pecans.
- Chocolate Twist: Use white chocolate or drizzle a contrasting chocolate over the tops for a bakery-style finish.
