If you have a sweet tooth that craves that perfect balance of crunchy nuts, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate, then you absolutely must try this Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe. It’s a timeless treat that blends the buttery pecans with melted caramel and silky smooth chocolate, coming together in bite-sized bliss that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. Whether you’re making these candy bites for a holiday gift or just because you deserve a delightful snack, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe ingredients ready is a breeze because they are all simple, accessible, and each plays a vital role in delivering the perfect flavor and texture combo.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps your candy from sticking, making cleanup much easier.
- 4 ounces pecan halves: Provides a delightful crunch and nutty aroma, forming the base for each candy cluster.
- 24 individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped: The gooey heart of this treat that melts beautifully and binds everything together.
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips: Adds the rich chocolate layer that contrasts the sweet caramel with just the right hint of bitterness.
- 1 teaspoon shortening: Helps the chocolate melt smoothly without seizing, ensuring a glossy, perfect finish.
How to Make Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Surface and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Then, line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and spray it generously with the nonstick cooking spray. This simple preparation keeps your Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe pieces from sticking and makes sure you get a smooth removal after baking.
Step 2: Arrange Pecans and Caramels
On the prepared cookie sheet, place 3 pecan halves in a Y shape. This creates the classic turtle candy structure. In the center of each Y, place one unwrapped caramel. Repeat this assembly for all remaining pecans and caramels. This not only looks pretty but ensures every bite gets that incredible trio of flavors.
Step 3: Bake Until Caramel Melts
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for about 8 to 10 minutes, just long enough for the caramel to melt perfectly. Keep an eye on them so the caramel softens without burning. This step is crucial as it transforms the candy into a luscious, melty delight that holds the pecans together.
Step 4: Melt Chocolate and Finish Candy
While the caramel is melting, gently heat the semisweet chocolate chips and shortening in a saucepan over low heat. Stir consistently until smooth and glossy. Then, carefully spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel and pecan cluster. Once the chocolate is on, place the tray in the fridge for about 30 minutes until everything is set solid. Your homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra-special touch, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt or a few crushed pecans on top of the chocolate before it sets. This adds a layer of texture and a burst of flavor contrast to the sweetness.
Side Dishes
Though these candies are rich enough to stand on their own, they pair wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or robust black tea, balancing and complementing their sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Package these Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe bites in decorative cellophane bags tied with colorful ribbons. They make fantastic party favors or heartfelt gifts. For a dessert platter, serve them alongside fresh berries and whipped cream to add freshness and variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your turtle candies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, making them the perfect treat to nibble on over several days.
Freezing
If you want to prepare well in advance, these candies freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating
Since these candies are at their best cold or room temperature, reheating is generally unnecessary. However, if you prefer them softer, pop a few pieces in the microwave for about 10 seconds to warm the caramel slightly without melting the chocolate completely.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work wonderfully and offer a different but equally delicious flavor and texture. Just be sure to use halves or large pieces to maintain that distinctive turtle candy shape.
Do I need the shortening in the chocolate?
The shortening is key to achieving smooth melting chocolate that doesn’t seize or become grainy. If you don’t have shortening, a small drizzle of vegetable oil can be an alternative, but shortening works best.
Can I make these candies vegan or dairy-free?
With some substitutions like dairy-free caramel and chocolate chips, yes! Look for vegan-certified caramels and chocolate to keep this recipe plant-based and just as indulgent.
How do I unwrap the caramels quickly?
Easily done by slicing each wrapped caramel with scissors or gently squeezing the ends to pop the wrapper off. Doing this beforehand speeds up your candy assembly process nicely.
What’s the best way to prevent caramel from sticking to my teeth?
Chilling the candies thoroughly before eating helps the caramel firm up, which can reduce sticking. Enjoying these with a drink or after a meal may also make the caramel feel less sticky.
Final Thoughts
Making the Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe is like creating a little piece of joy that you can savor any time you want. With such simple ingredients and an easy process, there’s no reason not to add this recipe to your collection and enjoy sharing it with friends and family. Give it a try and watch how this classic treat becomes a beloved favorite in your home!
Print
Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 24 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious homemade Turtle Candy featuring pecan halves, melted caramel, and rich semisweet chocolate. This easy-to-make treat combines crunchy nuts, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or gifting during holidays.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 4 ounces pecan halves
- 24 individually wrapped caramels, unwrapped
- 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon shortening
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil and spray it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange pecans and caramels: On the prepared cookie sheet, arrange 3 pecan halves in a Y shape. Place one unwrapped caramel candy in the center of the Y. Repeat this process for the remaining pecans and caramels, creating 24 candy arrangements in total.
- Bake until caramel melts: Bake the pecan and caramel arrangements in the preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or just until the caramel has melted and softened.
- Melt chocolate and top candies: While the candies bake, combine the semisweet chocolate chips and shortening in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Then spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel and pecan cluster.
- Chill to set: Place the chocolate-topped candies into the refrigerator and chill for about 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set and firm.
Notes
- For easy unwrapping, microwave caramels slightly to soften if needed.
- Use quality pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Shortening helps the chocolate melt smoothly and gives it a glossy finish.
- Store candies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- These candies make great homemade gifts when wrapped in decorative bags or boxes.
