Homemade Turtles Candy Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Turtles Candy is a delightful treat combining toasted pecans, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, these candies offer a perfect balance of nutty and sweet flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecan halves
• ¼ cup caramel ice cream topping (the thicker kind)
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon shortening (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If your pecans aren’t toasted, spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 7-10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let them cool completely before using.
2. Step 2: Optional: Roughly chop the toasted pecans into smaller pieces for more manageable clusters.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, stir the toasted, cooled pecans with the caramel topping until the nuts are evenly coated.
4. Step 4: Drop heaping tablespoons of the caramel-coated pecans onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them out to avoid sticking. Place in the refrigerator to chill for 1-2 hours, or until solid.
5. Step 5: In a heatproof or glass bowl, combine the chocolate chips and optional shortening. Microwave in 15-20 second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
6. Step 6: Using a spoon, drizzle or pour the melted chocolate over each pecan cluster, ensuring they are well-covered. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker results.
7. Step 7: Once the chocolate is set, your Turtle Candies are ready to serve. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For a richer caramel flavor, try using homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought topping.
• Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets for a sweet-salty twist.
• If you want shinier chocolate, stir in a teaspoon of shortening to the melted chocolate.

Storage

Store leftover Turtle Candies in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Allow them to come to room temperature briefly before serving for the best texture. To speed up setting or firm up soft candies, refrigerate them again for 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts make great alternatives and will still provide a delicious texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have shortening to add to the chocolate?

Shortening is optional and helps create a smoother, shinier chocolate coating. You can omit it and simply melt the chocolate chips carefully to avoid burning.

Homemade Turtles Candy Recipe

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Homemade Turtles Candy combines toasted pecans coated in rich caramel and covered with smooth melted chocolate, creating a classic treat that perfectly balances nutty, sweet, and chocolaty flavors. This easy no-bake candy recipe is perfect for delicious, crowd-pleasing snacks or gifts.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
• Yield: About 20–24 clusters 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 2 cups pecan halves
• ¼ cup caramel ice cream topping (thicker variety)
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon shortening (optional)

Instructions

1. Toast Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 7-10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting. This step enhances the flavor of the nuts. After toasting, let them cool completely.
2. Chop Pecans (Optional): For easier eating and better cluster formation, roughly chop the toasted pecans into smaller pieces if desired.
3. Coat Pecans with Caramel: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooled toasted pecans with the caramel ice cream topping. Stir thoroughly until all the pecans are evenly coated with the caramel.
4. Form Clusters: Drop heaping tablespoons of the caramel-coated pecans onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to space the clusters apart so they don’t stick together. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill for 1-2 hours until the clusters are firm and set.
5. Melt Chocolate: In a heatproof glass or microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and optional shortening. Microwave in short 15-20 second bursts, stirring well between each interval until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Be careful to avoid overheating or burning the chocolate.
6. Coat Clusters with Chocolate: Using a spoon, drizzle or pour the melted chocolate over each caramel pecan cluster, ensuring they are completely covered. Allow the chocolate to set at room temperature, or refrigerate for faster setting.
7. Serve and Store: Once the chocolate is fully set, your homemade Turtle Candies are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Notes

• Toasting pecans is key for developing a deeper nutty flavor.
• Shortening helps the chocolate melt smoothly and set with a nice sheen but can be omitted if preferred.
• You can substitute caramel ice cream topping with soft caramel sauce if needed.
• Ensure clusters are well spaced on the parchment to avoid sticking.
• Use microwave-safe bowls and stir chocolate often to prevent burning.

Keywords: Turtles candy, caramel pecan clusters, homemade candy, chocolate pecan treats, no-bake candy