Description
Delight in the rich, buttery, and crunchy goodness of Pecan Turtles Candy, featuring toasted pecan clusters drenched in homemade caramel and topped with smooth, melted chocolate. This classic confection is perfect for gifting or enjoying as a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
Pecan Clusters
- 3 cups pecan halves (toasted)
Caramel
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup light corn syrup
- 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (about half a can)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Chocolate Topping
- 10 ounces Ghirardelli melting wafers (or chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Prepare Pecans: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange the toasted pecan halves in clusters of four in an ‘X’ shape on the parchment-lined baking sheet, forming the base for each turtle candy.
- Make Caramel: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and light corn syrup. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently. Once boiling, add the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt, then insert a candy thermometer. Continue boiling and stirring until the caramel reaches 245℉, indicating the firm ball stage.
- Assemble Candies: Quickly spoon about one tablespoon of the hot caramel onto each pecan cluster, using it to bind the four pecans together. Work swiftly as the caramel will begin to set.
- Set Caramel: Let the caramel-bound pecan clusters sit at room temperature for 15 minutes or until the caramel has fully set and firmed.
- Melt Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate wafers or chips according to package instructions, heating in 20-second increments and stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
- Top with Chocolate: Quickly spoon a small amount of melted chocolate over the caramel on each pecan cluster, covering it to create the signature ‘turtle’ look. Allow the chocolate to cool and set completely before handling, storing, or serving.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350℉ for about 8-10 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant and lightly browned.
- A candy thermometer is essential to achieve the perfect caramel consistency.
- Use parchment paper to prevent candies from sticking and to ease removal.
- Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For a glossy finish, you can temper the chocolate before topping the candies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Candy
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Pecan turtles, homemade candy, caramel pecans, chocolate turtles, holiday candy, easy candy recipe
