Indulge in these rich and decadent Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, a treat that combines the perfect blend of toasted pecans, creamy caramel, and smooth milk chocolate.
These clusters are easy to make and make a delightful homemade candy that’s great for gifting or simply enjoying as a special treat. The buttery caramel holds the pecans together, while the milk chocolate adds a sweet finishing touch.
Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters: A Sweet and Nutty Delight
The combination of toasted pecans with caramel and chocolate is irresistible. These homemade turtle clusters are sure to impress at any occasion, whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or serving them as part of a holiday dessert spread. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these delightful confections in no time.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 24-30 clusters
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Medium-sized saucepan
- Microwave-safe bowl
- Cookie sheets lined with parchment paper
Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups pecans
- 1/2 cup butter (salted)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1/2 of a 14-ounce can)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (12-ounce) package milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon shortening (butter-flavored Crisco recommended)
Instructions:
- Toast the pecans:
In a large skillet, toast the pecans over medium-high heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Toast until the pecans darken slightly and smell fragrant. Set aside. - Prepare the cookie sheets:
Line two large cookie sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Arrange the toasted pecans into clusters of three, leaving about an inch of space between each cluster. - Make the caramel:
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium-high heat. Add 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup light corn syrup, and 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk. Stir the mixture constantly as it heats, cooking until it reaches 235-240°F (use a candy thermometer for accuracy). Remove the pan from the heat once it reaches around 234°F to prevent the caramel from overcooking, and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. - Drizzle the caramel:
Working quickly, drizzle about 1 1/2 teaspoons of caramel over each pecan cluster, ensuring that the caramel touches all the nuts to hold them together. Let the caramel set for a few minutes. - Melt the chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the 12 ounces of milk chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until fully melted. Add 1/2 teaspoon of shortening to the melted chocolate and stir until smooth and spreadable. - Top the clusters:
Spoon about 1 1/2 teaspoons of melted chocolate over each caramel-covered cluster. Use the back of the spoon to gently swirl the chocolate on top for a pretty finish. - Cool and serve:
Let the chocolate set up and cool completely. Once the clusters have hardened, they are ready to serve. Store them in an airtight container if needed.
These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a deliciously sweet and nutty treat, perfect for satisfying your candy cravings or gifting to friends and family!