These Homemade Turtle Candies are a delightful treat made with crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and smooth melted chocolate. They’re the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and nutty, making them an irresistible homemade candy!
📋 Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole pecan halves 🥜
- 1 package (11 oz) soft caramels (about 40 caramels) 🍬
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream 🥛
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips 🍫
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smoother chocolate) 🥥
- Sea salt (optional) 🧂
📝 Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pecans:
- Toast the pecans (optional):
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, just until fragrant. Allow to cool.
- Arrange pecans:
- On a parchment-lined baking sheet, arrange the toasted pecan halves in clusters of 3-4 pecans. Each cluster will be the base of your turtle candy.
2. Melt the Caramel:
- Melt the caramels:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramels and 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramel is smooth and fully melted.
- Spoon the caramel:
- Using a spoon, carefully drizzle about 1 tablespoon of melted caramel over each pecan cluster. Try to cover most of the pecans but leave some exposed.
- Let the caramel set:
- Allow the caramel to cool and set for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Melt the Chocolate:
- Melt the chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and 1 tablespoon of coconut oil (if using). Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and fully melted.
- Spoon the chocolate:
- Spoon melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecans, spreading it gently with the back of the spoon to cover the caramel.
4. Add Finishing Touches:
- Add salt (optional):
- If you like a sweet and salty combination, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each turtle while the chocolate is still warm.
5. Let the Candies Set:
- Cool and set:
- Allow the turtle candies to set at room temperature for about 1 hour, or speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes.
6. Serve:
- Enjoy:
- Once the chocolate is firm, your homemade turtle candies are ready to enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
⏱️ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱️ Setting Time: 1 hour (or 30 minutes in the fridge)
⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 24 candies
🔥 Calories: Approximately 150 kcal per candy
These Homemade Turtle Candies are perfect for holiday gifts, special occasions, or just indulging in a sweet treat. The combination of rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate is simply irresistible! 🍫🐢🥜