Chocolate Caramel and Pecan Turtle Clusters

I have always wanted to make Turtle Clusters.

Not because I have a fascination with real live turtles and think it would be fun to nibble on one. I’ve actually NEVER wanted to do that. Thank you so much for asking. You are always so considerate. 🙂

I’ve wanted to make Turtle Clusters because the flavors of chewy homemade caramel, crisp pecans, and heavenly chocolate all combined into one blissful candy is just a bite of heaven right here on earth, that’s why. Heaven. On. Earth. Is what I am saying here, folks. Whoever came up with the combination should be kissed on both cheeks, high-fived with both hands, and given 50 thumbs up.

You’ll have to help me out with the thumbs, guys. The last time I checked I only had two.

If you hate caramel, pecans, and chocolate…please do not give 50 thumbs up, just disregard this post. No hard feelings. See you tomorrow for a chocolate-free recipe. 🙂

As for you fellow turtle lovers, let me show you how easy they are to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Caramel and Pecan Turtle Clusters are the ultimate treat for anyone who loves the combination of sweet and nutty flavors. The rich caramel pairs perfectly with crunchy pecans and a silky chocolate coating. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make at home!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• 2 large cookie sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cooking spray
• Medium-sized saucepan
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Thermometer

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 C pecans
• 1/2 C butter (I use salted)
• 1 C brown sugar
• 1/2 C light corn syrup
• 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1/2 of a 14-ounce can)
• 1/2 t vanilla
• 1 (12-ounce) package milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 t shortening (I use butter-flavored Crisco)

Instructions:

1. Toss 2 1/2 cups of pecans into a large skillet. Toast them over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they have darkened just a bit and smell fragrant and wonderful. This should only take a few minutes.
2. Find yourself 2 large cookie sheets. Line them with parchment paper and spray it with cooking spray. Arrange your pecans into clusters, three to a group works well. You want to leave some space (about an inch) between each cluster.
3. Make your caramel. Place 1/2 C butter into a medium-sized saucepan. Melt it over medium-high heat. Add 1 C brown sugar, 1/2 C light corn syrup, and 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk to the pan. Increase the heat just a bit and stir it continually. Cook and stir until it reaches 235-240 degrees. I generally remove it from the heat when it reaches about 234 degrees. It will continue to rise in temperature just a bit even without the direct heat, making the caramel just the right texture.
4. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla.
5. Carefully drizzle about 1 1/2 teaspoons of caramel over each nut cluster. You’ll want to work quickly, as the caramel will begin to set up. Be sure there is caramel touching all of the nuts in your cluster. The caramel works like glue, sticking the nuts together.
6. In a microwave-safe bowl, pour 12 ounces of milk chocolate chips. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring after each cooking interval.
7. Add 1/2 teaspoon of shortening to the melted chocolate. Allow it to sit for a minute or two (so it can melt and make the chocolate chips more spreadable). Stir it all together.
8. Spoon about 1 1/2 teaspoons of melted chocolate over the top of the caramel and nuts. Swirl it around along the top, making a pretty swoop with your spoon.
9. Allow the chocolate to set up. Once it has hardened and cooled, you can serve them immediately or transfer them to an airtight container.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to toast the pecans for that extra depth of flavor.
• Work quickly when drizzling the caramel to ensure it doesn’t harden before you’re done.
• Using a thermometer for the caramel is crucial to achieving the right texture.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the chocolate for a salted caramel version.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each cluster is a delightful combination of healthy fats from the pecans, sugars from the caramel, and antioxidants from the chocolate. Enjoy them as a special treat!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use different nuts? Absolutely! Although pecans are traditional, you can try walnuts or almonds for a different twist.

How should I store these clusters? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Can I freeze them? Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Chocolate Caramel and Pecan Turtle Clusters are a delightful treat that brings together some of the most beloved flavors in the dessert world. I hope you try making them and enjoy every delicious bite. I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so please share your experiences in the comments below!