Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters featuring toasted pecans, smooth caramel, and rich semi-sweet chocolate. These no-bake clusters are perfect for holidays, gifts, or anytime you crave a sweet, nutty treat with a touch of sea salt.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves, toasted
- 20 soft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, optional
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Form Pecan Clusters: Arrange small clusters of pecan halves, about 4 to 5 pecans per cluster, on the prepared baking sheet.
- Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is smooth and melted.
- Coat Clusters with Caramel: Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted caramel over each pecan cluster, gently spreading it to cover the nuts evenly. Allow the caramel to set for about 10 minutes.
- Melt Chocolate: In another microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Cover Clusters with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel pecan cluster, ensuring they are completely covered.
- Add Sea Salt (Optional): Lightly sprinkle sea salt over the chocolate-covered clusters to enhance the flavor.
- Refrigerate: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes until the chocolate is fully set and firm.
- Store: Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. For longer storage, the clusters can be frozen for up to 2 months and thawed before serving.
Notes
- Toast pecans at 350°F (175°C) for 6 to 8 minutes for a deeper, richer flavor.
- Use good quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for the best taste and texture.
- Clusters can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw them before serving.
