Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pecan halves (or roughly chopped if you prefer smaller pieces)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz milk chocolate or dark chocolate (your choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional for added flavor)
- A pinch of sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pecan Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning. Once toasted, set them aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Caramel Layer:
- If you’re using store-bought caramel sauce, simply heat it gently in a microwave-safe bowl for about 20-30 seconds until it’s soft and pourable.
- For homemade caramel, melt about 1/2 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until it turns golden brown, then carefully add 1/4 cup heavy cream and stir until smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool a bit before using.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- In a heatproof bowl, melt the chocolate in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth and fully melted. You can also melt the chocolate using a double boiler if you prefer.
- Assemble the Clusters:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Begin by placing 5-6 toasted pecans (in a cluster) on the parchment paper for each turtle cluster.
- Spoon a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of caramel sauce onto the pecans, making sure it drizzles and coats them. Don’t use too much caramel, as it should just coat the nuts slightly.
- Top with Melted Chocolate:
- Pour or spoon a generous amount of melted chocolate over the caramel-coated pecans to form a “cluster.” You can adjust the amount depending on how chocolatey you want them to be.
- Pour or spoon a generous amount of melted chocolate over the caramel-coated pecans to form a “cluster.” You can adjust the amount depending on how chocolatey you want them to be.
- Cool and Set:
- Allow the turtle clusters to cool and set at room temperature, or place them in the fridge for about 30 minutes to speed up the process.
- Once set, sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster for a sweet-salty touch, if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy!
- Once the chocolate is fully hardened, your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer storage.
- Once the chocolate is fully hardened, your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them for longer storage.
Tips:
- For extra flavor: You can add a dash of vanilla extract to the melted chocolate for a richer taste.
- For a festive touch: These clusters make great gifts! You can package them in cute boxes or bags with a ribbon.
- Make them your own: Try substituting the pecans for other nuts like almonds or cashews, or drizzle a bit of white chocolate on top for a visual contrast.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters—they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the combination of chocolate, caramel, and nuts!
