Homemade Turtle Candy 🐢🍫
Crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate—just like the classic candy, but even better homemade! Perfect for gifting or holiday treats.
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 1 hr (+ cooling)
Makes: 24-30 pieces
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 2 cups whole pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
- 1 (11 oz) bag soft caramel candies (e.g., Kraft)
- 1 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
For the Chocolate Topping:
- 1½ cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 tsp coconut oil (for shine)
- Flaky sea salt (optional, for contrast)
Instructions
1. Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended):
- Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 mins until fragrant. Let cool.
2. Melt the Caramel:
- Unwrap caramels and combine with heavy cream in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave in 30-sec bursts, stirring until smooth (or melt over double boiler).
3. Assemble the Turtles:
- On parchment paper, arrange pecan clusters (3-4 pecans per candy).
- Spoon 1 tsp melted caramel over each cluster. Let set 15 mins.
4. Add the Chocolate:
- Melt chocolate chips + coconut oil (microwave or double boiler).
- Spoon over caramel layer. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
- Chill 20 mins to set.
Pro Tips
✔ Shortcut: Use store-bought caramel sauce (thicken with 1 tbsp powdered sugar).
✔ Gift-ready: Package in mini cupcake liners or a decorative tin.
✔ Variations:
- Dark chocolate for intense flavor.
- Espresso powder in the chocolate for a mocha twist.
Why You’ll Love These
✨ Easy to customize (swap pecans for almonds or walnuts).
✨ No baking required—just melt, assemble, and chill!
✨ Cheaper (and tastier) than store-bought.
Store in an airtight container at room temp for 1 week or freeze for 2 months. Let me know if you’d like a vegan or dairy-free version! 😊
(P.S. For extra decadence, drizzle with melted white chocolate!)