Description
These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters combine the rich crunch of pecan halves with smooth caramel and luscious melted chocolate, finished with an optional sprinkle of sea salt for a perfect balance of sweet and salty. An easy no-bake treat that comes together quickly and is perfect for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
Scale
Clusters
- 1 cup pecan halves
Caramel Layer
- 1 cup soft caramel candies, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
Chocolate Topping
- 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (or a mix of both)
Optional Garnish
- Sea salt, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the clusters from sticking during assembly.
- Arrange the Pecans: Place the pecan halves on the baking sheet into small clusters of 3-4 pecans each, ensuring the pecans touch in the center to form a base for the caramel.
- Make the Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramel candies with heavy cream. Microwave in 15-20 second bursts, stirring after each interval until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, approximately 1-2 minutes total.
- Add Caramel to Clusters: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster, covering the points where pecans meet. Allow the caramel to set for a few minutes so it firms up.
- Melt the Chocolate: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth and completely melted.
- Top with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel pecan cluster, fully covering the caramel layer. Use the back of the spoon to smooth the chocolate for a more polished appearance.
- Add Sea Salt (Optional): While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each cluster to enhance the sweet and salty flavor contrast.
- Cool and Set: Let the clusters set at room temperature for about one hour, or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the chocolate hardens completely.
- Serve: Once the clusters have set, gently peel them off the parchment paper and enjoy your delicious homemade chocolate pecan turtle clusters.
Notes
- Use a silicone mat or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Microwave heating times may vary—stir frequently to avoid burning the caramel or chocolate.
- For a different flavor profile, try using dark chocolate chips or white chocolate instead.
- Store clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- Add sea salt sparingly; too much can overpower the sweet flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American