The Best Chocolate Pecan Caramel Turtles Recipe

This Chocolate Pecan Turtles Recipe is better than you can find at any candy store. Made with pecan clusters, gooey caramel and rich chocolate, they are sure to be your new favorite homemade candy.

Homemade chocolate turtles are a classic candy treat that are beloved by many. These tasty treats are made with only a few simple ingredients, and are relatively easy to make at home.

The saltiness of the crunchy pecans mixed with the sweetness of the delicious chocolates is a match made in heaven. This is one of the best chocolates I’ve had in awhile, and they make a great chocolate gift too.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what chocolate turtles are, how they’re made, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to make them at home.

If you love recipes with chocolate you should also try my Healthy Homemade Twix Bars Recipe (Gluten Free and Vegan) and my Dark Chocolate Protein Peanut Butter Cups.

WHAT ARE CHOCOLATE TURTLES?

Chocolate turtles are a candy that typically consists of a pecan, caramel, and chocolate. They are named after their resemblance to a turtle, with the pecan acting as the turtle’s head and the caramel and chocolate forming the shell.

These candies are typically sold in specialty candy shops, but they can also be made at home using a few simple ingredients.

They are perfect to make ahead for a mothers day treat, for Valentine’s Day, or for a gift basket or gift box.

INGREDIENTS YOU WILL NEED

You will need the following ingredients listed below to make the delicious turtles (the exact measurements and full recipe are in the recipe card at the bottom of the post):

• Crisp pecans – pecan halves are best.
• Creamy caramel squares – can also make homemade caramel if you prefer.
• Chocolate chips – can use dark chocolate for dark chocolate turtles, belgian chocolate, rich milk chocolate, etc. Can also use a little bit of coconut oil to help get chocolate more silky smooth.
• Optional ingredients for more rich gourmet chocolate turtles – corn syrup, heavy cream, cocoa butter, coarse sea salt, etc.

HOW TO MAKE THE BEST CHOCOLATE TURTLES

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make homemade chocolate turtles:

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Toast pecans in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes. Toasting the pecans will give them a nice, nutty flavor that will complement the caramel and chocolate.

Step 2: Melt the Caramel

Next, melt your caramel candies in a double boiler over low heat. Stir the caramel constantly until it is melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Turtles

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or wax paper. Place clusters of three crispy pecans onto the wax paper, making sure that they are touching.

Spoon a small amount of melted caramel onto each cluster, making sure that it covers the pecans. Let the caramel cool for a few minutes.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

Melt your chocolate chips in a double boiler over low heat. Stir the chocolate constantly until it is melted and smooth.

Step 5: Coat the Turtles in Chocolate

Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate onto each turtle, making sure that it covers the buttery caramel. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt and let the chocolate cool for a few minutes.

Step 6: Let the Turtles Set

Once the chocolate has cooled, let the turtles set for a few hours. You can speed up the process by placing them in the refrigerator.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Once the turtles have set, they are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a plate or package them up as a gift for a friend or loved one.

TIPS FOR MAKING THE CHEWY CARAMEL HOMEMADE TURTLES

Here are a few tips to keep in mind when making homemade chocolate turtles:

• Use high-quality ingredients – since there are only a few ingredients in chocolate turtles, it’s important to use the best quality ingredients you can find. Look for fresh pecans, high-quality chocolate chips, and good-quality caramel candies.
• Be patient – letting the caramel and chocolate cool and set takes time, so be patient and don’t rush the process. This will ensure that your turtles come out looking and tasting great.
• Customize your turtles – while the classic chocolate turtle is made with pecans, caramel, and chocolate, you can customize your turtles by using different nuts, adding sea salt, or drizzling them with white chocolate.

HOW TO STORE THE CARAMEL TURTLES

Homemade chocolate turtles can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Here are some tips to help you store them properly:

Room temperature storage: Chocolate turtles can be stored at room temperature if the temperature is not too warm. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.

They can last for up to 2 weeks when stored at room temperature.

Refrigerator storage: You can also store chocolate turtles in the refrigerator, which can extend their shelf life. Wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge.

They can last for up to 1 month in the refrigerator.

Freezer storage: If you want to store chocolate turtles for a longer period, you can freeze them. Wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Note: Chocolate turtles may develop a white film on the surface if they are exposed to moisture or temperature fluctuations. This is called “chocolate bloom” and while it may not look very appetizing, it is still safe to eat.

To avoid chocolate bloom, store chocolate turtles in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing them to moisture.

Homemade chocolate turtles are a delicious and classic candy treat that are easy to make at home. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Other Chocolate Desserts You May Want To Try!

• The Best Healthy Protein Cookie Dough Recipe
• Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe (Gluten Free)
• The Best Gluten Free Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Overnight Oats
• Vegan Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

IF YOU TRIED THIS RECIPE PLEASE LEAVE IT A COMMENT AND STAR RATING. I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOUR CREATIONS! YOU CAN PIN THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST OR SHARE ON INSTAGRAM BY TAGGING @basicswithbails and #basicswithbails