Quick Description
These Homemade Turtle Candies with Pecans and Caramel are the perfect blend of rich dark chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans. They’re a simple, no-bake candy that’s sure to impress! Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or making homemade gifts for the holidays or any special occasion.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12–15 pieces
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients List
For the Turtle Candy:
- 1 cup raw pecan halves
- 1/2 cup soft caramels (about 15 pieces), unwrapped
- 1 tbsp unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (70% cacao or higher)
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5–7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. Once toasted, set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Melt the Caramel
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the soft caramels and almond milk (or milk of choice). Stir constantly until the caramels are completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Turtles
On a parchment-lined baking sheet, place the toasted pecans in small clusters of 3 or 4 pecans. Spoon a small amount of the melted caramel over each cluster, ensuring it covers the pecans. Allow the caramel to cool slightly and set before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the dark chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted and smooth. Alternatively, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler.
Step 5: Drizzle the Chocolate
Spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecan clusters. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the chocolate evenly over the caramel. Let the chocolate harden slightly at room temperature or refrigerate the candies to speed up the process.
Step 6: Chill and Set
Once the chocolate has set, refrigerate the turtles for 10–15 minutes to ensure everything firms up.
Step 7: Serve
Once chilled, remove from the parchment paper and enjoy! Store in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Additional Notes
- Make It Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free caramels and dark chocolate chips to make this recipe fully vegan and dairy-free.
- Sweetness Adjustments: If you prefer a sweeter treat, use milk chocolate chips or add a pinch of salt to the caramel for a salted caramel version.
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of sea salt on top of each candy for a sweet-salty flavor contrast.
Dietary Info
- Low-Carb/Keto Option: Use sugar-free caramel and dark chocolate chips with a higher percentage of cacao to keep these candies low-carb and keto-friendly.
- Gluten-Free: These candies are naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free ingredients.
- High in Healthy Fats: Pecans provide healthy fats, making these candies both satisfying and nutritious.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Nut Variations: Swap out pecans for almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a different twist on the classic turtle candy.
- Gifting Idea: Package these candies in decorative jars or boxes for a homemade gift idea for holidays or special occasions.
- Holiday Treats: Add festive touches like sprinkles or colored sugar for a holiday-themed candy.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Store these homemade turtle candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze them for up to 1 month. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.
