Description
Classic chocolate turtles delight sweet-toothed dessert enthusiasts with caramel, pecans, and rich chocolate. Pecans create a crunchy base while chocolate and caramel bind this irresistible confection that keeps guests returning for more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 200 g (2 cups/16 fl oz) pecan halves, lightly toasted
- 200 g (7 oz) soft caramels, store-bought or homemade
- 200 g (7 oz) semi-sweet or milk chocolate, chopped
- 2 tbsps heavy cream
- 1 tsp coconut oil or vegetable shortening
- Sea salt flakes
Instructions
- Workspace Preparation: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat, creating a clean surface for crafting chocolate turtles.
- Cluster Formation: Arrange pecan halves in turtle-like configurations, positioning nuts to mimic a reptilian silhouette with distinct body segments.
- Caramel Creation: Combine caramel and cream in a microwave-safe bowl, heating in brief intervals and stirring until achieving a smooth, glossy liquid.
- Caramel Application: Drizzle melted caramel over pecan clusters, ensuring nuts bind together and form a compact base, then allow to stabilize for 10 minutes at room temperature.
- Chocolate Preparation: Melt chocolate using a double boiler or microwave method, gently heating and stirring to create a silky, uniform mixture. Optionally incorporate coconut oil for enhanced shine and smoother coating.
- Coating Process: Generously enrobe each caramel-topped pecan cluster with melted chocolate, ensuring complete and even coverage. Immediately sprinkle sea salt flakes for flavor complexity and visual intrigue.
- Setting and Storage: Allow chocolate turtles to solidify at room temperature for one hour or expedite cooling by refrigerating for 15-20 minutes. Transfer to an airtight container, preserving at room temperature for up to one week or refrigerating for extended freshness of two weeks.
Notes
- Prevent Caramel Burning: Use low heat and stir constantly when melting caramel to avoid scorching, which can create bitter flavors and ruin texture.
- Achieve Smooth Chocolate Coating: Maintain chocolate temperature between 88-90°F for perfect glossy finish and professional-looking shell without streaks or bloom.
- Control Caramel Consistency: Let caramel cool slightly before drizzling to prevent excessive spreading and ensure neat, compact pecan clusters.
- Ensure Proper Storage: Store chocolate turtles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain optimal texture and prevent chocolate from melting or developing white spots.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 13
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 14 g
- Sodium: 35 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 5 mg