Description
Irresistible chocolate pecan turtle clusters deliver sweet caramel and nutty crunch in one heavenly bite. Rich chocolate, toasted pecans, and silky caramel blend perfectly for a delightful dessert anyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 ½ cups (270 grams / 9.5 oz) semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 ½ cups (180 grams / 6.3 oz) pecan halves, toasted
- 1 cup (240 grams / 8.5 oz) soft caramels, unwrapped
- 2 tbsps heavy cream
- Sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Prep Surface: Line baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat, creating a non-stick foundation for the confectionery.
- Construct Pecan Base: Arrange pecan halves in star-like formations across the baking sheet, ensuring gentle contact between nuts.
- Create Caramel Sauce: Melt caramels with heavy cream in microwave, stirring between intervals until achieving a smooth, glossy consistency. Drizzle warm caramel over pecan clusters, allowing it to slightly envelope the nuts and stabilize for 10 minutes.
- Chocolate Coating: Melt chocolate chips using careful microwave technique, stirring frequently to maintain a glossy texture. Pour molten chocolate over caramel-covered clusters, ensuring complete coverage. Optional: Sprinkle a hint of sea salt for depth of flavor.
- Set and Serve: Allow clusters to solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes or quickly chill in refrigerator until chocolate firms completely. Store in airtight container or serve immediately for a decadent treat.
Notes
- Prevent Caramel Separation: Heat caramel and cream slowly, stirring constantly to avoid burning or splitting, which can ruin the smooth texture of your clusters.
- Master Chocolate Melting: Use short microwave intervals at 50% power, stirring between each burst to prevent chocolate from seizing or becoming grainy, ensuring a glossy, professional finish.
- Pecan Positioning Technique: Arrange pecans carefully in tight, interconnected star shapes to create a stable base that helps caramel and chocolate adhere perfectly without spreading.
- Temperature Control for Setting: Allow clusters to set at room temperature for optimal chocolate shine and texture, or refrigerate briefly if you’re short on time, but avoid prolonged chilling to prevent chocolate bloom.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 13
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg