Description
These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters combine toasted pecans, rich caramel, and smooth melted chocolate in a delightful no-bake treat. Perfectly crunchy and sweet, these clusters are easy to make and ideal for anyone craving an indulgent homemade candy with a hint of sea salt.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves or chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1 cup caramel candies or homemade caramel bits
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or a mix)
- Optional: sea salt flakes for sprinkling
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 8 to 10 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Remove and let them cool completely.
- Melt the Caramel: Place caramel candies and butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the caramel and butter are completely melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Combine Pecans and Caramel: Toss the toasted pecans in the melted caramel mixture until they are evenly coated and glossy.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Line an 8×8-inch square pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave some overhang for easy removal later. Spread the pecan and caramel mixture evenly on the bottom of the pan.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips using the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each interval, until smooth and fully melted.
- Pour Chocolate Over Pecans: Evenly spread the melted chocolate over the pecan-caramel layer in the pan.
- Chill and Set: Sprinkle sea salt flakes lightly over the top if desired. Refrigerate the pan for at least 2 hours until the chocolate is firm and the clusters hold together.
- Slice and Serve: Use the parchment paper overhang to lift the set confection from the pan. Cut into bars or break into irregular clusters to serve.
Notes
- For deeper flavor, you can toast the pecans a day ahead and store them in an airtight container.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the best taste and smooth texture.
- If you don’t have parchment paper, lightly greasing the pan will work, but removal might be trickier.
- Sea salt flakes on top add a nice contrast to the sweetness, but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Store leftover clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
