Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, a classic treat combining caramel, chocolate, and pecans. These bite-sized indulgences are perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet snack!
Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pecan halves (about 4 oz)
- 1 cup caramel bits (or 12 soft caramels, unwrapped)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups semisweet or milk chocolate chips (or a mix of both)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil (optional, for smooth melting)
- Sea salt (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Toast the pecans in the oven for 7-10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until they’re lightly browned and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
2. Make the Caramel:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramels are melted and smooth (about 1-1.5 minutes total). If you’re using unwrapped soft caramels, melt them in the same way, adding heavy cream to help it come together. Set the caramel aside to cool slightly.
3. Melt the Chocolate:
- In a separate microwave-safe bowl, place the chocolate chips and optional vegetable oil (which helps the chocolate melt smoothly). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between, until completely melted and smooth (about 1 minute total).
4. Assemble the Turtle Clusters:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Place 5-6 pecan halves in a small pile on the baking sheet for each cluster.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the melted caramel onto the center of each pile of pecans.
- Then, spoon about 1 tablespoon of the melted chocolate over the caramel and pecans, making sure to cover them.
5. Set the Clusters:
- Let the clusters sit at room temperature to set, or chill them in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, until the chocolate has hardened and the caramel is firm.
6. Optional Finishing Touch:
- Once the clusters are set, you can sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each one for a sweet-salty contrast, which is especially delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the chocolate is completely set, serve or store the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
Tips:
- If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use dark chocolate instead of milk or semisweet.
- For a fun twist, add a drizzle of white chocolate over the top of each cluster before it sets.
- These clusters also make great gifts—just package them in small boxes or bags!
Enjoy your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, a perfect treat for any occasion!