Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters: The Ultimate Homemade Gourmet Candy Recipe

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Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

There are few candies that evoke the same nostalgic, comforting feeling as a classic turtle. A perfect harmony of crunchy pecans, chewy, buttery caramel, and a rich cloak of chocolate, the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Cluster is the gold standard of confectionary indulgence. While store-bought versions are often good, nothing compares to the deep flavor and incredible texture achieved when you create them from scratch. This recipe elevates the standard turtle candy by guiding you through crafting a silky, soft homemade caramel that is absolutely essential to that perfect gooey center. Forget the brittle, overly hard caramel found in mass-produced treats this is gourmet candy making achieved right in your own kitchen.

Making these decadent clusters is a rewarding experience, transforming simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and nuts into a luxurious dessert. They are the ideal treat for holiday gifting, special occasions, or simply satisfying that intense craving for something truly rich and satisfying. We cover every detail, from perfectly toasting the pecans to mastering the soft-ball stage of caramel, ensuring your homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are flawless every single time. Prepare to dazzle your friends and family with a confection so good, they’ll swear you bought it from a high-end chocolatier.

Yields: Approximately 24 Clusters
Prep Time: 20 Minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes
Chill Time: 1 Hour

Why You’ll Love Mastering These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

If you’re looking for a signature dessert that showcases your culinary prowess without requiring complex baking techniques, these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are your answer. They offer a depth of flavor and texture that is unmatched by recipes relying on pre-made ingredients. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a step-by-step guide to creating a truly unforgettable candy experience. We use the highest quality components and classic techniques to ensure a result that is buttery, complex, and melts in your mouth once you break past that satisfying chocolate shell, of course.

Unparalleled Texture and Flavor Control

The secret to an exceptional turtle candy lies almost entirely in the caramel. Store-bought turtles often feature a tough, brittle, or overly sweet caramel. By making the caramel from scratch, you gain complete control over its consistency and salinity. We use a combination of brown and white sugar, along with a significant amount of butter and heavy cream, to achieve that perfect “soft-ball” stage a caramel that is delightfully chewy but won’t pull out your fillings. The addition of fine sea salt at the end balances the intense sweetness, transforming this from simple candy into a sophisticated salted caramel confection.

Furthermore, the toasting of the pecans is a non-negotiable step. Raw pecans taste flat; toasted pecans, however, release their natural oils, developing a deep, smoky, nutty profile that is crucial to balancing the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate. When these perfectly toasted pecans, rich homemade caramel, and high-quality melted chocolate come together, the resulting Chocolate Pecan Turtle Cluster is a three-layer symphony of taste and texture that is truly addictive.

The Perfect Homemade Gift

If you enjoy creating handcrafted gifts, these gourmet pecan clusters are an absolute winner. They look incredibly professional, especially when fully dipped, and they maintain their freshness for a remarkably long time (if they last that long!). Packaging a dozen homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters in a decorative box transforms a simple act of generosity into a luxurious present. People appreciate the effort and quality that goes into homemade candy, especially during the holidays. For inspiration on other festive treats to gift, check out our recipe for Crispy Gingerbread Cookies.

A Rewarding Culinary Challenge

While the steps are straightforward, making caramel requires attention and precision. Mastering the use of a candy thermometer and hitting the precise temperature (240°F) is a skill every home cook should acquire. Successfully creating a batch of silky, soft caramel for your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters provides a huge sense of accomplishment. This recipe not only yields incredible candy but also boosts your confidence in tackling more complex confectionery projects.

Why You Should Try This Recipe for Gourmet Pecan Clusters Now

Beyond the simple desire for chocolate and caramel, this specific recipe for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters offers benefits that make it superior to using shortcuts or inferior ingredients. We focus on maximizing flavor and structural integrity, ensuring that your clusters look as good as they taste, whether you are hosting a party or simply stocking your personal candy stash.

Superiority of Homemade Caramel

Many quick turtle recipes call for melting pre-made caramel squares or using jarred caramel sauce. While convenient, these options often contain stabilizers and corn syrup solids that result in a texture that is either too runny or too waxy. Our homemade soft caramel recipe, using real butter and heavy cream, provides a richness and mouthfeel that industrial caramel cannot replicate. The slow process of dissolving the sugar and butter before bringing the mixture to the exact soft-ball stage ensures maximum flavor development, making these the creamiest and chewiest pecan clusters imaginable.

Customization Opportunities Are Endless

When you make Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters at home, you are the master of flavor. Do you prefer intense, bitter dark chocolate? Use 70% cacao. Are you a milk chocolate purist? Use high-quality milk melting wafers. You can also experiment with flavor additions: A pinch of cayenne pepper in the caramel gives these clusters a sophisticated Mexican hot chocolate twist, or perhaps a swirl of orange zest in the melted chocolate for a citrus note.

Furthermore, you control the size. Want mini clusters for bite-sized snacking? Use two nuts per cluster. Want substantial, satisfying gourmet clusters? Use four to five nuts and a generous dollop of caramel, perfect for an evening treat paired with coffee. For another customizable caramel-based treat, consider trying our recipe for Caramel Cheesecake Cookies.

Perfect for Holiday Preparation

If you are planning for a major holiday like Thanksgiving or Christmas, these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are excellent make-ahead treats. They store exceptionally well (details in the tips section), allowing you to spread out your holiday baking tasks. Because they only require one hour of chill time before the final chocolate coating, they are ready to package and serve relatively quickly once the main caramel cooking is done. They make a fantastic addition to any holiday platter alongside seasonal favorites like Chewy Pecan Pie Cookies.

Achieving the Perfect Chocolate Coating

Using high-quality melting chocolate (often called confectionery coating or melting wafers) and adding a touch of vegetable shortening or coconut oil ensures your chocolate sets with a beautiful, glossy shine and a satisfying “snap.” This professional finish elevates the homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters from rustic treats to truly gourmet confections, making them look just as appealing as they taste.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for the Best Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Success in candy making hinges on accurate measurements and quality ingredients. Do not substitute margarine for butter, and ensure your heavy cream is fresh. Pay close attention to the sugar proportions, as they dictate the final texture of the caramel.

Essential Ingredients List

Below are the precise quantities needed to yield approximately two dozen delicious clusters:

For the Pecan Bases:

  • 2 cups (about 8 ounces) raw pecan halves: We specifically use raw halves for the best toasting results. If you can, source high-quality, fresh pecans.
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, if toasting nuts): Used immediately after toasting to enhance the nutty flavor, though the salt in the caramel often suffices.

For the Homemade Soft Caramel:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into chunks: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the total salt content, which is key to a balanced salted caramel flavor.
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides the depth, moisture, and molasses flavor crucial for soft caramel.
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar: Essential for structure and sweetness.
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (at room temperature): CRITICAL TIP: Ensure the cream is at room temperature. Adding cold cream to the hot sugar mixture can cause crystallization and seize the caramel.
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: This quantity provides the perfect level of salinity to contrast the rich sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Added at the very end to prevent evaporation and maximize flavor; use pure vanilla, not imitation.

For the Chocolate Coating:

  • 12 ounces high-quality melting chocolate: Use melting wafers, high-quality chocolate chips, or a finely chopped chocolate bar. A combination of milk and semi-sweet is excellent for flavor complexity.
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional): This addition aids in achieving a smooth, thin consistency for easy dipping and a glossy finish when set.

Detailed Notes on Ingredient Quality and Preparation

The success of these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters truly relies on starting with the right components. Do not skimp on the quality of your chocolate; cheap chocolate can seize easily and lacks the rich cocoa flavor required to cut through the buttery caramel.

Pecans: If you cannot find halves, pieces will work, but halves provide the traditional, aesthetically pleasing “turtle” shape. Toasting is absolutely necessary it takes just 6 to 8 minutes but makes all the difference in flavor profile.

Caramel Ingredients: Note the importance of room temperature cream. This is not just a suggestion; it prevents rapid temperature drop and crystallization when added to the simmering sugars and fats. The combination of sugars ensures both the chewiness (brown sugar) and the structure (white sugar).

Chocolate Coating: For the most beautiful, snappiest coating, opt for specialized melting wafers (like Ghirardelli or Merckens). They contain cocoa butter or similar fats that temper beautifully without the fussy traditional tempering process, giving your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters a professional look.

Recommended Tools and Utensils

While this recipe doesn’t require complex machinery, certain tools are vital for accuracy and safety, especially when dealing with hot sugar.

  • Heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan: A heavy bottom is essential for even heat distribution, preventing the caramel from scorching on the bottom while the top is still cold.
  • Candy Thermometer: This is mandatory. Achieving the soft-ball stage (240°F/115°C) accurately is impossible without one. Clip-on types are preferred.
  • Parchment paper or silicone mats: Crucial for lining the baking sheets. Do not substitute foil or wax paper, as the sticky caramel will fuse to them.
  • Two large baking sheets: Used for toasting the pecans and assembling the clusters.
  • Measuring cups and spoons (metal): For accurate ingredient proportions.
  • Rubber spatula or wooden spoon: For initial stirring of the caramel ingredients.
  • Small metal spoon or measuring tablespoon: Ideal for dolloping the hot caramel onto the clusters.
  • Microwave-safe bowl or Double Boiler: For melting the chocolate smoothly.

Detailed Instructions: Creating Perfect Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Follow these steps precisely, especially when cooking the caramel, for the best result. Safety first: Hot sugar reaches extreme temperatures and can cause severe burns.

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans and Layout

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This step ensures easy removal of the finished Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

2. Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on one of the prepared baking sheets.

3. Toast the pecans in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes, or until they smell deliciously fragrant and show a slight browning. Watch carefully nuts can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.

4. Remove the pecans from the oven and let them cool completely. Warm nuts will melt the caramel prematurely.

5. Once cooled, arrange the pecans onto the second parchment-lined baking sheet. Create small, tight clusters of three or four nuts, positioned close together in the classic ‘turtle’ shape. Ensure you leave adequate space (about 2 inches) between each cluster to accommodate the caramel spread.

Step 2: Master the Soft Caramel (The Heart of the Turtle)

This is the most critical step. Precision is key to achieving chewy, soft caramel for your pecan clusters.

1. In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine the unsalted butter chunks, light brown sugar, granulated white sugar, and the room temperature heavy whipping cream.

2. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon until the butter is completely melted and the sugars have dissolved into the cream/fat mixture. This prevents grainy caramel later.

3. Once fully combined and smooth, increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Clip your candy thermometer securely to the side of the pot, ensuring the bulb is submerged but not touching the bottom.

4. Reduce the heat slightly so the boil remains steady but manageable. Crucially, stop stirring now. Continued stirring after the boil starts can encourage sugar crystals to form, resulting in grainy caramel.

5. Continue boiling until the caramel reaches the soft-ball stage. The temperature must register exactly 240°F (115°C). This process typically takes between 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your stovetop heat.

6. Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat the second it hits 240°F. If it goes higher, the caramel will become too hard and brittle once cooled.

7. Stir in the vanilla extract and the 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Be cautious, as the introduction of cold vanilla extract may cause the hot mixture to bubble up vigorously.

8. Allow the finished caramel to cool slightly in the pan for about 3 to 5 minutes. This cooling period thickens the caramel just enough to prevent it from running off the pecan clusters when poured, ensuring a perfect, centered mound.

Step 3: Assemble and Set the Turtle Clusters

1. Working quickly while the caramel is still warm and easily pourable, use a small metal spoon or measuring tablespoon to generously dollop the caramel over the center of each pecan cluster. The goal is to bind the nuts together and create a substantial caramel base for the chocolate.

2. Try to ensure the caramel does not touch the parchment paper immediately, keeping it centralized on the pecans. It will naturally spread slightly as it settles.

3. Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or place the entire baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. The caramel must be completely set and firm to the touch before proceeding to the chocolate step. If the caramel is soft or sticky, it will mix with the warm chocolate.

Step 4: Melt and Prepare the Chocolate

1. Place the 12 ounces of high-quality melting chocolate (and the optional shortening/oil for gloss) in a microwave-safe bowl.

2. Melt the chocolate carefully using short bursts of heat. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly after each interval. Continue until the chocolate is smooth and almost entirely melted (some small lumps are okay).

3. Remove from the microwave and continue stirring until the residual heat melts the remaining lumps. The final result should be a silky, glossy, and uniform melted chocolate. Alternatively, use a double boiler over simmering (not boiling) water for the most gradual, safest melt.

Step 5: Dip and Finish the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

1. You have two options for the coating, depending on your preferred classic look:

  • Full Dipping: Carefully pick up each caramel-pecan cluster (once fully firm). Submerge the entire cluster using a fork or dipping tool. Tap the tool gently against the bowl edge to allow excess chocolate to drip off. Return the cluster to a clean piece of parchment paper.
  • Classic Drizzling (Recommended): Leave the bottoms clean. Use a spoon to liberally drizzle or pour the melted chocolate over the tops of the caramel clusters until they are adequately coated, allowing the caramel and pecans to peek out.

2. While the chocolate is still wet, you may sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt (like Maldon) on top of each cluster, if desired, for an extra sophisticated finish.

3. Let the completed Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters rest at cool room temperature or chill in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes until the chocolate shell is completely hardened and set. Once set, peel them gently from the parchment paper.

4. Store in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer storage.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Variations for Homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Candy making can be temperamental, but knowing how to troubleshoot common issues will guarantee success. Use these tips to perfect your technique and explore delicious variations of your gourmet pecan clusters.

Caramel Troubleshooting: Why Did My Caramel Fail?

The caramel stage is where most issues arise. Here’s how to avoid (or fix) the most frequent problems:

  • Grainy Caramel: This happens due to crystallization. It occurs if you stir the mixture after it reaches a boil, or if sugar crystals splatter onto the side of the pot and fall back in. Fix: Try adding a tablespoon of water or corn syrup and gently reheating, hoping to dissolve the rogue crystals.
  • Caramel Is Too Hard/Brittle: The temperature went too high. If the temperature exceeds 245°F, the caramel will harden too much. There is no simple fix for overcooked caramel once cooled. Tip: Next time, pull the pot off the heat the second the thermometer hits 240°F.
  • Caramel Is Too Runny/Soft: The temperature was too low (below 238°F). Fix: Return the caramel to the heat and cook slowly until it hits the proper 240°F temperature.
  • Separated Caramel (Oily/Broken): This usually happens when the temperature drops too quickly (e.g., adding cold cream) or if the butter separates from the sugar. Fix: Stir vigorously off the heat. If it still looks grainy, add a teaspoon of hot water and stir hard until the emulsion returns.

Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters based on availability and dietary needs:

Nut Swaps: Pecans are traditional, but walnuts (for a slightly more earthy flavor), cashews, or even macadamia nuts make fantastic substitutes. Ensure any substitution is toasted first.

Chocolate Types: While the recipe suggests milk or semi-sweet, try dark chocolate (70% or higher) for a deeper, less sweet, more intense flavor profile. You can also coat the bottom in dark chocolate and drizzle the top with white chocolate for a dramatic visual contrast. If you are looking for other chocolate fudge inspiration, check out our recipe for Gingerbread Fudge.

Quick Caramel Option (For Emergencies): If you simply cannot manage the homemade caramel or are short on time, you can melt 14 ounces of soft caramel squares (like Kraft or similar brands) with 2 tablespoons of heavy cream and a pinch of salt. While this lacks the complexity of the homemade version, it is a faster alternative for assembling the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Presentation and Gifting Advice

To ensure your homemade pecan clusters look professional, use a fork rather than tongs for dipping, allowing the caramel to cling to the chocolate. If the melted chocolate starts to thicken during dipping, return it to the microwave for a quick 10-15 second burst and stir vigorously until smooth again.

For beautiful packaging, place each cooled and set turtle in a mini cupcake liner before placing them in a box or cellophane bag. This prevents sticking and enhances the presentation.

Storage Best Practices

These candies keep remarkably well due to their high sugar and fat content.

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 7 days.
  • Refrigeration: If stored in the fridge, they can last for 2–3 weeks. Bring them back to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving for the best texture (snappy chocolate and soft caramel).
  • Freezing: For long-term storage (up to 3 months), wrap individual clusters tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before bringing to room temperature.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

It must be acknowledged that Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are an indulgent treat, high in sugar and fat. However, they also incorporate ingredients that offer measurable health benefits, particularly from the pecans and high-quality chocolate.

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown (Per Cluster, based on 24 clusters):

Please note: These are estimates and vary based on the exact size and chocolate coating thickness.

  • Calories: 180–220 Kcal
  • Total Fat: 15–18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8–10g
  • Carbohydrates: 15–20g (mostly sugar)
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fiber: 1g

Benefits of Pecans and Chocolate

While we are enjoying these clusters as a treat, it’s reassuring to know that the main components contribute to your well-being:

Pecans: A Nutritional Powerhouse: Pecans are an excellent source of healthy fats, primarily monounsaturated fats (like oleic acid), which are known to promote heart health. They are also packed with fiber, protein, and more than 19 vitamins and minerals, including zinc, vitamin E, and magnesium. Pecans are notable for their high antioxidant content, specifically a form of Vitamin E called gamma-tocopherol, which helps protect cells from damage. The toasting process used in this recipe enhances the bioavailability of certain nutrients while deepening their flavor.

The Power of Cocoa: If you opt for dark chocolate (50% cacao or higher) for your coating, you benefit from a high concentration of flavanols. These plant compounds are potent antioxidants that can help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Dark chocolate consumption, in moderation, has been linked to improved brain function and mood elevation a benefit you will certainly feel when biting into one of these perfect Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters!

Salt Balance: The addition of sea salt (especially flaky salt sprinkled on top) does more than just enhance flavor; sodium is an essential electrolyte. The trace minerals found in high-quality sea salt help cut the overwhelming sweetness of the caramel, creating a more balanced and complex flavor profile that encourages savoring, rather than scarfing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

What is the difference between Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters and other pecan candies?

The term ‘turtle’ specifically refers to the arrangement of the pecans, which are clustered together and coated in caramel and chocolate, resembling the shape of a turtle. Other pecan candies, like pecan brittle or pecan pralines, typically feature the pecans mixed directly into a sugar base rather than being bound by a chewy caramel layer and then dipped in chocolate.

Why did my homemade caramel turn hard and brittle instead of soft and chewy?

Caramel becomes hard when it is overcooked, meaning it was heated past the required soft-ball stage. For soft, chewy caramel in these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, the temperature must hit precisely 240°F (115°C). If the temperature rises to the firm-ball stage (245°F–250°F) or beyond, the caramel will set too firmly once cooled, losing its desirable chewiness.

Can I use different types of nuts in these gourmet pecan clusters?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute other nuts like walnuts, macadamia nuts, or almonds. The key is ensuring that whatever nut you choose is toasted before assembly. Toasting brings out the deep, natural flavor of the nut, providing a necessary counterpoint to the sweet caramel and chocolate layers.

How should I store my finished Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters to keep them fresh?

Store them in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week. If you need longer storage, refrigerate them for up to three weeks. If refrigerated, allow the clusters to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving to soften the caramel slightly and maximize flavor complexity.

What is the best type of chocolate to use for dipping these pecan clusters?

We highly recommend using high-quality melting wafers (also known as confectionery coating) or finely chopped couverture chocolate. These varieties melt smoothly and set with a professional, glossy ‘snap.’ Avoid standard chocolate chips, as they often contain stabilizers that prevent them from melting into a perfectly smooth dipping consistency, which is vital for beautiful Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Conclusion: The Reward of Homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Creating these gourmet Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters from scratch is more than just following a recipe; it is an investment in creating a memory-worthy confection. By mastering the delicate art of homemade soft caramel, perfectly toasting the pecans, and finishing with a flawless layer of high-quality chocolate, you transform simple ingredients into a luxurious, artisanal treat that rivals any bought from a specialty candy shop.

The combination of textures the crunch of the pecan, the deep chewiness of the buttery salted caramel, and the satisfying snap of the chocolate makes this recipe an irresistible indulgence. Whether you are baking for the holidays, looking for the perfect edible gift, or simply treating yourself, these pecan clusters deliver on every promise of decadence.

Don’t be intimidated by the candy thermometer; precision leads to perfection in this case, and the reward is absolutely worth the effort. Once you experience the superior flavor of homemade caramel, you will never go back to store-bought turtles. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your results, and explore more of our decadent recipes. For more cooking inspiration and beautiful food photography, follow my boards on Pinterest. Dive in, and enjoy the blissful complexity of your very own batch of gourmet Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters!

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Gourmet Homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

These exquisite homemade turtle candies feature beautifully toasted pecans, a rich, soft scratch-made caramel center, and a decadent coating of smooth melted chocolate.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 24 clusters
Course: Candy, Dessert, Holiday Treats
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Pecan Bases
  • 2 cups raw pecan halves (about 8 ounces)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional, for toasting)
For the Homemade Soft Caramel
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), cut into chunks
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream (at room temperature)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
For the Chocolate Coating
  • 12 ounces high-quality melting chocolate (milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or combination)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional, for smoother melting consistency)

Equipment

  • Heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan
  • Candy Thermometer
  • Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats
  • Baking Sheets

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. Spread the pecan halves in a single layer and toast for 6 to 8 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove and let them cool completely.
  3. Arrange the cooled pecans onto the parchment-lined baking sheets in small clusters of three or four nuts, positioned close together. Ensure you leave adequate space between each cluster.
Step 2: Make the Soft Caramel
  1. In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, granulated white sugar, and heavy whipping cream. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until melted.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reducing the heat slightly to maintain a steady boil. Cook without stirring until the caramel reaches the soft-ball stage: 240°F (115°C) on a candy thermometer. This typically takes 10 to 15 minutes.
  3. Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract and fine sea salt. Let the caramel cool slightly in the pan for about 3 to 5 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Assemble and Set the Clusters
  1. Working quickly while the caramel is warm, use a small spoon to dollop the caramel generously over the center of each pecan cluster, binding them together. Do not fully coat the pecans, just the center area.
  2. Allow the clusters to set until the caramel is completely firm to the touch. This takes at least 30 minutes at room temperature or 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
Step 4: Coat with Chocolate
  1. Melt the 12 ounces of chocolate (and optional shortening) using a microwave in 30-second intervals or a double boiler until smooth, glossy, and uniform.
  2. Dip or Drizzle: For a fully coated turtle, carefully submerge each cluster entirely in the melted chocolate. Alternatively, leave the bottoms exposed and use a spoon to liberally drizzle the chocolate over the tops of the clusters.
  3. Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the wet chocolate coating immediately.
  4. Let the completed clusters chill in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes until the chocolate shell is fully hardened. Serve immediately or store.

Notes

The overall time required to complete this recipe includes a mandatory 30-60 minutes of chilling time to allow the caramel and chocolate to properly set. For the best flavor, allow the finished turtles to come back to cool room temperature before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.

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