the turtle candy with pecans and caramel

The Ultimate Guide to Making Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel: A Decadent Delight

Turtle candy is a beloved treat that combines three simple yet irresistible elements—pecans, caramel, and chocolate. With roots in American confectionery dating back to the early 1900s, this candy is not only delicious but also charming in its appearance, often resembling a small turtle with pecan “legs” poking out from under a chocolate and caramel shell. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or as a homemade gift, turtle candy is surprisingly easy to prepare. Below is a detailed, step-by-step method to help you create this mouthwatering sweet treat from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 1½ cups pecan halves (toasted for deeper flavor)
• 20 individually wrapped soft caramels (or ½ cup homemade caramel)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (or chocolate melting wafers)
• 1 teaspoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother chocolate)
• Sea salt (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)

To bring out the rich, nutty flavor of pecans, you can toast them lightly.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the pecan halves in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
4. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Step 2: Arrange the Pecans

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Group 3 to 4 pecan halves together in a clover shape or “X” pattern to resemble turtle legs.
3. Make as many clusters as you desire, ensuring they’re spaced out for adding caramel and chocolate.

Step 3: Melt the Caramel

If using store-bought caramels:

1. Unwrap 20 caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of heavy cream.
3. Microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth (about 1–2 minutes total).
4. Allow it to cool slightly so it thickens a bit but is still pourable.

For homemade caramel, use a trusted caramel recipe and allow it to cool slightly before use.

Step 4: Add the Caramel Layer

1. Using a spoon, drizzle about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel over the center of each pecan cluster.
2. Let the caramel settle for a minute or two to firm up slightly.

Pro tip: Place the tray in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to set the caramel faster.

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