Homemade Chocolate Turtles Recipe

Introduction

Homemade Chocolate Turtles are delightful treats combining rich caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate. These bite-sized candies are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a sweet indulgence anytime.

Ingredients

• 6 tbsp salted butter
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups pecan halves
• 16 oz almond bark or high-quality chocolate

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–10 minutes, stirring once until fragrant. Let them cool, then roughly chop and set aside.
2. Step 2: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and corn syrup, then stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Microwave the mixture on HIGH for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The caramel should reach 235°F (soft-ball stage) or pass the ice water test.
5. Step 5: Remove the bowl carefully with hot pads and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
6. Step 6: Drop spoonfuls of the caramel-pecan mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming individual mounds. Refrigerate for 20 minutes or until set.
7. Step 7: Melt the almond bark or chocolate in the microwave or a double boiler, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
8. Step 8: Using a fork, dip each pecan-caramel cluster into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place coated turtles on parchment paper to set.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, lightly toast the pecans before chopping to enhance their flavor.
• Use dark chocolate instead of almond bark for a richer taste.
• If you don’t have a candy thermometer, use the classic ice water test to check caramel readiness.
• Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the turtles before the chocolate sets for a sweet and salty twist.

Storage

Store your homemade chocolate turtles in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2–3 weeks. If refrigerated, let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes and will work well with the caramel and chocolate.

How do I know when the caramel is ready?

The caramel is ready when it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer or when a small amount dropped into cold water forms a soft, pliable ball.

Homemade Chocolate Turtles Recipe

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Homemade Chocolate Turtles are a delightful treat featuring toasted pecans coated in a rich caramel and then dipped in smooth melted chocolate. This recipe combines buttery caramel with the crunch of pecans and the richness of chocolate, resulting in an irresistible candy perfect for gifting or indulging.

• Author: rami
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: About 24 turtles 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Caramel and Pecans

• 6 tbsp salted butter
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups pecan halves

Chocolate Coating

• 16 oz almond bark or high-quality chocolate

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Toast Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecan halves evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 5–10 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant. Allow to cool, then roughly chop and set aside.
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. Set aside for later use.
3. Make Caramel: In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the salted butter. Add the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, sweetened condensed milk, and light corn syrup, stirring to combine all ingredients well. Microwave the mixture on HIGH for 6–8 minutes, stopping occasionally to stir, until it reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage) or passes the ice water test. Remove from microwave using hot pads.
4. Add Flavor and Nuts: Stir in the vanilla extract and the chopped toasted pecans into the hot caramel mixture, blending thoroughly.
5. Form Turtles: Drop spoonfuls of the caramel-pecan mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, shaping individual mounds. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator and chill the mounds for 20 minutes or until they are set and firm.
6. Melt Chocolate: Melt the almond bark or high-quality chocolate using a microwave or double boiler, stirring every 30 seconds until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
7. Dip Turtles in Chocolate: Using a fork, carefully dip each set caramel-pecan cluster into the melted chocolate. Let excess chocolate drip back into the bowl before placing the coated turtles back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet.
8. Set and Store: Allow the chocolate coating to set at room temperature or refrigerate for quicker setting. Store the finished chocolate turtles in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 2–3 weeks.

Notes

• Ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature (235°F) for optimal texture; use a candy thermometer for accuracy.
• Use high-quality chocolate or almond bark for a smooth, glossy finish.
• Toast pecans lightly to enhance their flavor but avoid burning for best results.
• Store turtles in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• These treats are perfect for gifting and can be stored for several weeks.

Keywords: Chocolate Turtles, Caramel Pecan Candy, Homemade Candy, Easy Chocolate Treats, Holiday Candy, Pecans, Caramel Candy