Indulge in the irresistible combination of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and crunchy pecans with these Chocolate Caramel Pecan Turtles. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors, wrapped in a velvety chocolate coating. Ready in just 21 minutes, this treat is as easy to make as it is delightful to enjoy.
These turtles are a sensory delight, with the smooth caramel melting into the crisp pecans and the chocolate adding a decadent finish. Whether you’re whipping them up for a party or a cozy night in, they’re sure to impress. Plus, their bite-sized perfection makes them ideal for sharing—or savoring all to yourself!
Ingredients for Chocolate Caramel Pecan Turtles
- 3 cups pecan halves (toasted for extra flavor)
- ½ cup butter (unsalted recommended)
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed for accurate measurement)
- ½ cup corn syrup (light or dark, depending on preference)
- 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (½ of a standard 14-ounce can)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla for best flavor)
- 12 ounces milk chocolate chips (can substitute with dark or semi-sweet chocolate)
- ½ teaspoon shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate coating)
- Non-stick cooking spray (for parchment paper)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Toast the pecans: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the pecan halves evenly on a cookie sheet and toast for 5-6 minutes, or until fragrant. Let them cool completely.
- Prepare the pans: Line 2 large cookie sheets with parchment paper and lightly spray with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange the cooled pecans in small groups of 3 on the sheets.
- Make the caramel: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Cook and stir constantly until the mixture reaches 235°F (112°C) on a candy thermometer, or until it forms a soft ball when dropped into cold water. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the turtles: Carefully spoon the caramel over each pecan cluster, ensuring all the nuts are covered. Allow the caramel to set slightly.
- Melt the chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or large glass measuring cup, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Stir in the shortening (if using) until fully blended.
- Add the chocolate topping: Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecan clusters. Use the back of a spoon to spread the chocolate evenly.
- Set and store: Let the turtles set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Once firm, store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Perfect Pairings: Serving Suggestions
These Chocolate Caramel Pecan Turtles are a delightful treat on their own, but they can be elevated with a few creative serving ideas. Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack. For a dessert platter, arrange them alongside fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or orange wedges, to balance the richness. They also make a lovely addition to a holiday cookie tray or a thoughtful homemade gift when packaged in a decorative tin.
Storing Your Sweet Creations
To keep your turtles fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 weeks or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Bakers
If you’re short on time, consider using pre-toasted pecans to skip the toasting step. You can also use store-bought caramel candies or caramel sauce for a quicker alternative to making caramel from scratch. For the chocolate topping, opt for a microwave-safe bowl to melt the chocolate chips in short intervals, stirring frequently to avoid burning. These small adjustments can save you time without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Swap out the milk chocolate chips for dark or white chocolate for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with other nuts, like almonds or walnuts, if pecans aren’t your favorite. For a festive twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt or crushed candy canes over the chocolate before it sets. These variations can make the recipe feel new and exciting every time you make it.
Essential Equipment Guidance
To make this recipe a breeze, you’ll need a few key tools. A candy thermometer is essential for achieving the perfect caramel consistency. Use parchment paper to line your baking sheets, as it prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. A microwave-safe bowl or glass measuring cup is ideal for melting chocolate, and a silicone spatula will help you spread the caramel and chocolate smoothly over the pecans. Having the right tools on hand ensures success every time!
Chocolate Caramel Pecan Turtles
Ingredients
- 3 cups pecan halves
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk 1/2 can
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
- 12 ounces milk chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon shortening
Instructions
- Toast pecans at 300 degrees on a cookie sheet for 5 to 6 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
- Line 2 large cookie sheets with parchment paper and spray lightly with non stick cooking spray.
- Arrange the pecans on the sheet in small groups of 3.
- To make the caramel, melt butter in a medium sized sauce pan. Add brown sugar, corn syrup, 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk. Cook and stir over medium high heat until it reaches 235 degrees on your candy thermometer or the soft ball stage. (Clings together well when you drop 1/2 teaspoon of caramel in cold water).
- Then remove the caramel from heat and stir in vanilla. Carefully spoon caramel over each nut cluster covering all the nuts.
- For the chocolate topping melt the chocolate chips in a microwave safe bowl or big glass measuring cup. Heat for 30 seconds at a time stirring after each interval until all melted and smooth.
- Then add in 1/2 teaspoon shortening to the melted chocolate chips. Stir all together until its blended in.
- Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel and spread around with the back of a spoon.
- Once they set up you can eat them or store them in an airtight container.