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Pecan Caramel Clusters

Turtle candy is great for holiday treats and gift ideas. Homemade candy is always a welcome present, especially chocolate clusters! A holiday tradition.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Setting time 1 hour
Course Dessert
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups Whole Pecan Halves
  • 1 bag 11 oz Caramels (or approximately 30-35 individual caramels)
  • 2 Tbsp Heavy Cream creates a smoother, softer caramel bite
  • 1 ½ cups Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or high-quality dark chocolate bars, chopped
  • 1 tsp Coconut Oil optional; adds a professional shine to the chocolate
  • The Finisher: Coarse Sea Salt or Fleur de Sel

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until they smell nutty and look slightly darker. This step is vital to prevent the pecans from becoming "soggy" once covered in caramel.
  • On a sheet of parchment paper, arrange the pecans into small clusters of 3 or 4 halves, pointing outward like a turtle's paws.
  • In a small saucepan over low heat (or a microwave-safe bowl), combine the caramels and the heavy cream. Stir continuously until completely smooth. Adding the cream prevents the caramel from becoming too hard to bite once it cools.
  • Spoon about a tablespoon of melted caramel over the center of each pecan cluster. Let them sit for 10–15 minutes at room temperature until the caramel is firm enough to hold its shape.
  • In a double boiler or microwave, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil. The oil thins the chocolate slightly, making it easier to dip and giving it a "snap" when you bite into it.
  • Use a small spoon to cover the caramel center with the melted chocolate, leaving the "pecan paws" peeking out from underneath.
  • While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a tiny pinch of coarse sea salt over the top. This cuts through the intense sweetness of the caramel.
  • Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to fully set the chocolate and caramel layers.
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