Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe

These delightful chocolate pecan turtle clusters are a heavenly combination of rich caramel, crunchy toasted pecans, and smooth melted chocolate—all in one irresistible bite. Whether you’re gifting them during the holidays or treating yourself to a sweet indulgence, these homemade candies are incredibly simple yet taste like they came from a gourmet shop!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted

• 1 (11 oz) bag soft caramels (about 40 pieces), unwrapped

• 2 tablespoons heavy cream

• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips

• 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)

• Sea salt flakes (optional, for topping)

• Instructions:

  1. Prep a Tray:
     Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Lightly grease if needed.

  2. Arrange Pecans:
     Place 3–4 pecan halves together in a small cluster on the tray. Repeat until all are used (you’ll get around 15–18 clusters).

  3. Melt the Caramels:
     In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted (about 2 minutes total). Stir well.

  4. Spoon Caramel:
     Quickly spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted caramel over each pecan cluster. Work fast before it sets.

  5. Cool to Set:
     Let the caramel-covered clusters cool at room temperature for 10–15 minutes or pop into the fridge to speed it up.

  6. Melt the Chocolate:
     In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil (if using) in 30-second bursts, stirring each time, until fully melted and silky.

  7. Top with Chocolate:
     Spoon melted chocolate over each caramel cluster, making sure to cover the caramel fully. Gently spread with the back of the spoon.

  8. Finish & Chill:
     Sprinkle with a few flakes of sea salt if desired. Refrigerate clusters until chocolate is firm, about 20–30 minutes.

  9. Serve or Store:
     Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

     Tips:

     • Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor contrast.

     • You can toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes to enhance their nuttiness.

     • Wrap individual clusters in wax paper for a sweet homemade gift!

     • Let me know if you’d like a salted caramel version or white chocolate drizzle option!