Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe

Introduction

These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters combine toasted pecans, rich caramel, and smooth melted chocolate for a delightful homemade treat. Perfectly sweet and nutty, they’re easy to make and sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1 stick butter
• 1 packed cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 (12-ounce) package milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon shortening

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, toast the pecans for a few minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
2. Step 2: Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the toasted pecans in groups of three, leaving about an inch between each cluster. Set aside.
3. Step 3: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Cook, stirring continuously, until the mixture reaches 235-240°F on a candy thermometer.
4. Step 4: Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla. Drizzle about 1/2 tablespoon of caramel over each pecan cluster. Set aside to cool slightly.
5. Step 5: Fill a pot about one-quarter full with water and place a heat-safe bowl on top, ensuring it does not touch the water to create a double boiler. Heat over medium until warm.
6. Step 6: Add the chocolate chips to the bowl and stir occasionally until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the shortening until blended.
7. Step 7: Spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of melted chocolate over each caramel-covered cluster.
8. Step 8: Allow the clusters to cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, substitute dark chocolate chips for the milk chocolate.
• Use a candy thermometer to ensure the caramel reaches the correct temperature for a perfect chewy texture.
• Sprinkle a small pinch of sea salt over the chocolate before it sets for a sweet-salty twist.

Storage

Store the clusters in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to two weeks. Let refrigerated clusters come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or cashews depending on your preference. Toast them lightly for best flavor.

Do I need a candy thermometer for this recipe?

While not absolutely required, a candy thermometer helps monitor the caramel temperature to ensure a perfect chewy consistency without burning.

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 73 reviews

• Author: Harry
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 clusters 1x

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Description

Delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters combine toasted pecans, rich caramel, and smooth melted milk chocolate, creating a perfect sweet and nutty treat for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Clusters

• 2 1/2 cups pecan halves
• 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
• 1 packed cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating

• 1 (12 ounce) package milk chocolate chips
• 1/2 teaspoon shortening

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Instructions

1. Toast the Pecans: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, toast the pecan halves for a few minutes until fragrant and slightly browned, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper and spray the parchment with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange the toasted pecans in groups of three, spacing each cluster about an inch apart. Set aside.
3. Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, light corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Cook and stir continuously until the mixture reaches 235-240°F on a candy thermometer, indicating firm ball stage.
4. Add Vanilla: Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to add flavor.
5. Drizzle Caramel: Carefully drizzle about 1/2 tablespoon of the hot caramel over each pecan cluster on the baking sheets. Set aside to cool.
6. Melt the Chocolate: Fill a pot about a quarter full with water and bring to a simmer to create a double boiler. Place a heat-safe bowl over the pot ensuring it doesn’t touch the water. Add the milk chocolate chips to the bowl and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
7. Add Shortening to Chocolate: Stir in the shortening to the melted chocolate to give it a glossy finish and smooth texture.
8. Top Clusters with Chocolate: Spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of the melted chocolate mixture over each caramel-drizzled pecan cluster.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the clusters to cool until the chocolate firms up. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Notes

• Ensure the caramel reaches the proper temperature for firm consistency by using a reliable candy thermometer.
• Use shortening in the chocolate coating to help it set with a shiny finish and prevent bloom.
• Store clusters in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and texture.
• For a darker chocolate flavor, substitute milk chocolate chips with semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Spacing clusters properly on the baking sheet prevents them from sticking together.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert, Candy
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, caramel pecan candy, homemade turtle candy, milk chocolate clusters, pecan candy recipe