Chocolate Pecan Turtles

Chocolate Pecan Turtles

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pecan halves, toasted
• 1 cup caramel squares or soft caramel candy
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 cup dark or milk chocolate chips (or chocolate bars broken into small pieces)
• Sea salt (optional for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pecans:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 7–10 minutes until fragrant. Allow them to cool.
2. Make the Caramel:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramel squares with the heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth. Let it cool for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.
3. Assemble the Turtles:
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place clusters of 3–4 pecans on the sheet (arrange them in a way that they slightly overlap to form the “base” of the turtle).
   • Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel over each pecan cluster, making sure the pecans are held together by the caramel.
4. Melt the Chocolate:
   • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 20–30 second intervals, stirring frequently until fully melted and smooth.
5. Add the Chocolate:
   • Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecan clusters, spreading it to cover the caramel.
   • If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each chocolate turtle for a salty-sweet contrast.
6. Cool and Set:
   • Let the turtles sit at room temperature until the chocolate sets, or refrigerate them for about 20 minutes to speed up the process.
7. Serve:
   • Once the chocolate is firm, your pecan turtles are ready to enjoy! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

These Chocolate Pecan Turtles are a perfect combination of crunchy, chewy, and rich flavors. Let me know if you’d like any variations or have any other questions!