Turtle candy is a classic treat featuring a delectable combination of crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate. These homemade candies are simple to make and perfect for gifting, holiday parties, or indulging your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible combination: The blend of chocolate, caramel, and pecans is a timeless favorite.
- Easy to make: No need for special equipment; this recipe comes together with just a few ingredients.
- Perfect for gifting: These candies are a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift.
- Customizable: Adjust the toppings or chocolate to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pecan halves
- Caramel candies or homemade caramel
- Heavy cream (if using store-bought caramel)
- Semisweet or milk chocolate chips
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Prepare a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Arrange the pecans: Place 3-4 pecan halves in a cluster on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until you have several clusters.
- Melt the caramel: If using store-bought caramel candies, melt them with a splash of heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir until smooth.
- Add the caramel: Spoon a small amount of caramel onto each pecan cluster, ensuring the caramel holds the pecans together. Allow to cool slightly.
- Melt the chocolate: Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
- Top with chocolate: Spoon a dollop of melted chocolate over each cluster, spreading it slightly to cover the caramel.
- Optional garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each candy for a salty-sweet contrast.
- Set and serve: Let the candies cool and harden completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: About 24 candies
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Dark chocolate: Use dark chocolate for a richer flavor and less sweetness.
- Add toppings: Garnish with crushed nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles for extra texture.
- Salted caramel: Mix a pinch of sea salt into the melted caramel for a salty-sweet twist.
- Drizzle effect: Drizzle white chocolate over the candies for a decorative touch.
- Vegan option: Use dairy-free caramel and chocolate for a vegan-friendly version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: These candies freeze well. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Candies do not need reheating; serve at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes, store-bought caramel candies work perfectly. Melt them with a splash of heavy cream for a smooth consistency.
What type of chocolate works best?
Semisweet, milk, or dark chocolate chips are all excellent choices. Use your favorite for a personalized touch.
How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too quickly?
Work quickly when spooning the caramel onto the pecan clusters, and keep it warm over low heat if needed.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or cashews make great substitutes.
How do I make these candies nut-free?
Substitute the pecans with pretzels or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Can I make my own caramel?
Yes, homemade caramel adds a fresh and buttery flavor. Use a simple recipe with sugar, butter, and cream.
What if my chocolate seizes?
Add a teaspoon of vegetable oil or coconut oil to melted chocolate to smooth it out if it seizes.
Are these candies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the caramel and chocolate are gluten-free. Always check the labels to be sure.
How do I make the candies shiny?
Use tempered chocolate for a glossy finish, or add a teaspoon of coconut oil to the melted chocolate for shine.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and make additional clusters on multiple baking sheets.
Conclusion
Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel is an easy and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, this homemade candy is sure to impress friends, family, or anyone lucky enough to receive it as a gift. Make a batch today and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of creating these classic confections!
PrintTurtle Candy With Pecans and Caramel
Turtle Candy is a classic treat made with toasted pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate. These bite-sized confections are simple to make and perfect for gifting or indulging during the holidays!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20 candies 1x
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves, toasted
- 20 soft caramels (about 7 oz)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for a glossy finish)
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast for 6–8 minutes, or until fragrant. Let cool.
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and melted.
- Assemble the Turtle Base:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange the toasted pecan halves in clusters of 3–4 pieces (about 20 clusters).
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster, ensuring the pecans are partially covered. Let the caramel set slightly.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. Stir in the coconut oil, if using, for a glossy finish.
- Top with Chocolate:
- Spoon or drizzle melted chocolate over each caramel-covered pecan cluster, covering the caramel completely.
- Set and Serve:
- Allow the turtles to set at room temperature or refrigerate for 15–20 minutes until the chocolate hardens. Transfer to an airtight container for storage.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Use dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet flavor.
- For added flair, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate before it sets.