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Homemade Chocolate Turtles Recipe

4.6 from 62 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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