Homemade Turtle Candy With Pecans and Caramel

Name: Homemade Turtle Candy With Pecans and Caramel
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups pecan halves (toasted); 1 cup soft caramels (unwrapped); 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (melted)

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By: Maria
Posted: 11/12/2024

Homemade Turtle Candy is a delicious combination of crunchy pecans, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or a quick dessert indulgence. Simple to make and irresistibly good, these turtle candies have a lovely balance of sweetness and texture that will satisfy any sweet tooth. What are some of the best ways to make candy at home?

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Ingredients

1 cup pecan halves
1 cup caramel candies. 1 cup chocolate candies. (about 20 caramels, unwrapped)
1 tbsp heavy cream (for melting caramels)
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips. 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for a smoother chocolate coating)

Directions

Prepare Pecans: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange small clusters of pecan halves on the baking sheet, leaving space between each cluster.
Melt the CaramelIn a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is smooth and melted.
Add Caramel to Pecans and serve.: Spoon a small amount of melted caramel over each pecan cluster, covering the nuts but allowing some to peek through. Let the caramel set slightly, about 5 minutes.
Melt the ChocolateIn another microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring each time, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.
Top with ChocolateSpoon melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, ensuring the caramel is covered. Gently spread the chocolate if needed.
Cool and Set: Allow the candies to set at room temperature or place the baking sheet in the fridge for faster setting, about 15–20 minutes.
ServeOnce the chocolate is firm, remove the candies from the parchment paper and enjoy!

Notes

Storage: Store turtle candy in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Gifting Tip: Place the turtle candies in a decorative tin or wrap them individually in wax paper for a homemade gift.
Extra FlavorFor a hint of saltiness, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before it sets.
Nut Substitutions: Try using almonds instead of pecans for a variation in flavor.

Homemade Turtle Candies with Pecans and Caramel are a classic treat that combines rich chocolate, caramel, and crunchy nuts in every bite.

What are the most frequently asked questions on Quora

Can I make these turtle candies ahead of time?

Can you make these turtle candies ahead of time? For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Ensure they are completely cooled and set before storing to prevent sticking.

What are some good substitutes for pecans, caramel, or chocolate chips?

For pecans, walnuts or almonds work wonderfully; use the same 1 cup measurement. If you don’t have caramel, you can make your own caramel using granulated sugar, butter, and heavy cream, following a standard caramel recipe, ensuring it’s thick enough to hold its shape. For chocolate chips, you can use any type of chocolate bar, chopped into small pieces; use 1 cup of chopped chocolate as a direct substitute.

How do you tell when caramel and chocolate are ready to use?

The caramel is ready when it’s completely smooth and runny after microwaving, with no unmelted pieces remaining. The chocolate is ready when it’s also smooth and glossy, stirring until all the chips are melted and there are no lumps. Both should be easily pourable.

Can I make a larger batch of turtle candies?

Can you double or triple the recipe? Be sure to microwave the caramel and chocolate in separate, larger bowls, adjusting the microwave times accordingly and stirring frequently to prevent burning.

What are the nutritional highlights of these homemade turtle candies?

What are the health benefits of dark chocolate and pecans? While these candies are a treat, they offer some nutritional value from the nuts and the potential for heart-healthy flavonoids from the chocolate.