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Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe
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4.8 from 20 reviews

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a delightful no-bake treat featuring toasted pecans topped with rich caramel and coated in smooth semi-sweet chocolate. These easy-to-make clusters combine sweet, salty, and nutty flavors in a perfect bite-sized snack or dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

Pecan Base

  • 2 cups pecan halves, lightly toasted
  • Parchment paper for lining

Caramel Layer

  • 1 (14 oz) bag soft caramels (about 50 pieces)
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Chocolate Coating

  • 1 ½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional)

Optional Finishing Touch

  • Sea salt flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and set aside.
  2. Form Pecan Clusters: Arrange the lightly toasted pecan halves into clusters of 3 or 4, spacing them evenly on the parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each, for about 2 minutes or until the caramel mixture is completely smooth and melted.
  4. Top Clusters with Caramel: Carefully spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the melted caramel over each pecan cluster, allowing the caramel to drizzle naturally over the nuts without spreading too far.
  5. Set Caramel: Let the caramel cool and set slightly on the clusters for a few minutes to firm up.
  6. Melt Chocolate: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips with coconut oil or butter (if using) by microwaving in 30-second bursts. Stir between each interval until smooth, glossy, and fully melted.
  7. Coat Clusters with Chocolate: Spoon a generous layer of melted chocolate over each caramel-covered pecan cluster, covering the caramel completely.
  8. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top of the chocolate for an added flavor dimension.
  9. Chill: Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened.
  10. Serve and Store: Once set, gently remove the clusters from the parchment paper and serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Notes

  • Lightly toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and crunch.
  • Use full-fat heavy cream for a smooth caramel texture.
  • The coconut oil or butter added to the chocolate helps achieve a glossy finish and smoother coating.
  • Adjust the amount of sea salt flakes based on your preference for sweet and salty balance.
  • For a firmer caramel, allow the clusters to chill longer before coating with chocolate.
  • Ensure the caramel does not spread too thinly so the clusters hold their structure well.
  • This recipe can be adapted with different nuts such as almonds or cashews if desired.
  • Store in a cool place, but refrigeration is recommended to keep the chocolate from melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chocolate pecan clusters, turtle candies, caramel pecan treats, no-bake dessert, easy chocolate clusters

Find it online: https://cookedbycleo.com/chocolate-pecan-turtle-clusters-recipe/