Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pecan halves
- 1 (11 oz) bag caramel bits (or 35 soft caramel candies)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 2 cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)
- Sea salt (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Toast the pecans (optional):
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let them cool. - Prepare a baking sheet:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. - Assemble the clusters:
Arrange small groups of 3-4 pecan halves on the baking sheet to form the base of each cluster. - Melt the caramel:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine caramel bits and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. - Add caramel to the clusters:
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted caramel over each pecan cluster, ensuring it sticks the nuts together. Let them cool and set for about 15-20 minutes. - Melt the chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips (with coconut oil if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring after each, until smooth. - Coat with chocolate:
Spoon melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, covering the caramel completely. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt if desired. - Set the clusters:
Let the clusters sit at room temperature or refrigerate them for about 30 minutes until the chocolate hardens. - Serve and enjoy:
Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.
These sweet and nutty treats are perfect for gifting or indulging yourself! Let me know if you’d like to add a twist, like drizzling white chocolate.