Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel Recipe

Indulge in the rich, buttery, and nutty flavors of homemade turtle candy! This classic treat combines crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate for an irresistible dessert. Perfect for holidays, gift-giving, or a sweet snack, this recipe is easy to make and sure to impress.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Chilling Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

• Difficulty: Medium

• Yield: 24 pieces

Ingredients

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

• 6 tbsp (85g) unsalted butter, cubed

• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• ¼ tsp salt

For the Turtle Candy:

• 1 ½ cups (150g) pecan halves

• 1 cup (175g) semi-sweet chocolate chips

• 1 tbsp coconut oil (or shortening)

• Flaky sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread pecan halves in a single layer on a baking sheet.

3. Toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant. Remove and let cool.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

1. In a medium saucepan, heat sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it melts into an amber liquid (about 5-7 minutes).

2. Once fully melted, add butter and whisk until fully incorporated (be careful, it will bubble).

3. Slowly pour in heavy cream while whisking continuously.

4. Let the mixture simmer for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat.

5. Stir in vanilla extract and salt. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Turtles

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Arrange pecans in small clusters (3-4 halves per candy).

3. Spoon 1-2 tsp of warm caramel over each pecan cluster.

4. Let the caramel set at room temperature for 15 minutes, then transfer to the fridge for 10 minutes to firm up.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine chocolate chips and coconut oil.

2. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.

Step 5: Coat the Turtles

1. Using a spoon, drizzle melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster.

2. Optionally, sprinkle with flaky sea salt.

3. Let the chocolate set at room temperature or refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until firm.

Step 6: Serve & Store

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week or in the fridge for 2 weeks.

• For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months in a sealed container.

Nutritional Information (Per Piece)

• Calories: 150 kcal

• Total Fat: 11g

• Saturated Fat: 5g

• Cholesterol: 10mg

• Sodium: 35mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 13g

• Dietary Fiber: 1g

• Sugars: 11g

• Protein: 1g

Tips for Success

• Use a candy thermometer for precise caramel consistency (soft-ball stage, 235-245°F / 112-118°C).

• Avoid stirring sugar too early to prevent crystallization.

• For extra decadence, use dark or milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet.

Enjoy your homemade turtle candy—each bite is a perfect balance of crunch, chew, and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate! 🐢🍫