Here’s how to make them the easy homemade way (no candy thermometer needed!) 👇
🍬 Homemade Turtle Candies
Makes: about 20 turtles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5–10 min
Cooling time: 20–30 min
🧂 Ingredients
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2 cups pecan halves (toasted if desired)
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1 cup soft caramels (like Kraft caramels or Werther’s soft caramels)
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2 tbsp heavy cream (or milk)
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1½ cups chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
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1 tbsp coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)
🍳 Instructions
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Prepare a tray:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
Arrange pecans in small clusters (3–4 halves per turtle). -
Melt the caramel:
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels and cream.
Microwave in 20–30 second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth and melted. -
Add caramel:
Spoon a small amount of melted caramel (about 1 tsp) over each pecan cluster.
Let it cool for about 10–15 minutes, until slightly firm. -
Melt the chocolate:
Melt chocolate chips (and coconut oil if using) in the microwave in short bursts, stirring until smooth. -
Top with chocolate:
Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate over each caramel cluster, spreading gently to cover. -
Set:
Let them cool at room temperature or refrigerate for about 20 minutes until firm.
🍫 Optional Add-Ons
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Sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt on top before the chocolate sets (SO good!).
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Use dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet version.
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Swap pecans for cashews, almonds, or peanuts for a twist.
🧊 Storage
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Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 weeks.
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For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze (layer with parchment paper).
Would you like me to give you a microwave-only version (super quick, no stove) or a gourmet version with homemade caramel next?
