Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters—a sweet treat made with pecans, caramel, and chocolate, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pecan halves (or pecan pieces if preferred)
- 1 cup caramel bits (or 14 oz caramels, unwrapped)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 8 oz milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Toast the pecans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Toast the pecans for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Make the caramel:
- In a small saucepan, combine the caramel bits and heavy cream. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the caramel is completely melted and smooth. If you’re using unwrapped caramels, melt them the same way, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Melt the chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20-30 second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted.
- Assemble the clusters:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.
- Arrange the toasted pecan halves into small clusters (about 3-4 pecans per cluster) on the parchment paper.
- Spoon a small amount of melted caramel onto each cluster of pecans.
- Drizzle or spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel and pecans, ensuring everything is well covered.
- Let the clusters set:
- Allow the turtle clusters to cool at room temperature or refrigerate them for about 15-20 minutes until the chocolate has hardened and the clusters are set.
- Serve:
- Once the chocolate has firmed up, your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are ready to serve! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.
These sweet, crunchy, and chewy clusters are perfect for a dessert, snack, or homemade gift! Enjoy!