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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Vanilla: Remove the caramel from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to add flavor.
- Drizzle Caramel: Carefully drizzle about 1/2 tablespoon of the hot caramel over each pecan cluster on the baking sheets. Set aside to cool.
- 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.
- Add Shortening to Chocolate: Stir in the shortening to the melted chocolate to give it a glossy finish and smooth texture.
- Top Clusters with Chocolate: Spoon about 1/2 tablespoon of the melted chocolate mixture over each caramel-drizzled pecan cluster.
- 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
