Description
This Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel is a delightful, classic treat perfect for any holiday season or family gathering. With a base of crunchy pecans, a gooey caramel center, and a smooth chocolate topping, this candy combines irresistible flavors and textures in every bite. Enjoy this homemade version of the traditional turtle candy, a favorite for gifting, sharing, or simply indulging in a sweet treat.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Candy lovers who enjoy classic, homemade sweets.
- Holiday bakers looking for easy, crowd-pleasing treats.
- Families who enjoy cooking together and making edible gifts.
- Anyone wanting to recreate a nostalgic candy at home with simple ingredients.
Why It’s Great
Here’s why you’ll love making these homemade turtle candies:
- Simple Ingredients: Only three main ingredients—pecans, caramel, and chocolate.
- Festive and Shareable: Ideal for holiday gift-giving, parties, and gatherings.
- Easy to Make: Minimal cooking is required, and no candy thermometer needed.
- Perfect Flavor Combination: The crunchy pecans, creamy caramel, and rich chocolate create an unforgettable taste.
Ingredients
- 64 pecan halves
- 11 oz baking or cooking caramels (about 1 bag)
- 1 bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
How to Make Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel
- Arrange the Pecans: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Place pecan halves flat side down in sets of four, forming an “X” shape or cross for each candy, leaving space between each set. These will be the base of your turtle candies.
- Melt the Caramels: Unwrap the caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a tablespoon of water to help smooth the caramel as it melts. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the caramel is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Caramel to Pecans: Spoon a generous amount of the melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster. The caramel should cover the middle and hold the pecans together.
- Melt the Chocolate: Place the chocolate chips in another microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring each time, until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Spoon the melted chocolate over the caramel center of each candy, covering the caramel but leaving the pecans partially exposed.
- Chill the Candies: Place the baking sheet with the turtle candies in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or until the candies are fully set and hardened.
- Serve and Enjoy! Once set, these turtle candies are ready to serve or package for gifting.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Microwave-safe bowls
- Spoons for layering caramel and chocolate
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- Refrigerator: Store in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks to keep them fresh longer.
- Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the candies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQ
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes! Dark chocolate works well and adds a richer, slightly less sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel and pecans.
Can I use homemade caramel?
Absolutely. If you prefer to make your own caramel, simply prepare a batch and use it in place of the store-bought caramels.
What’s the best way to reheat the caramel if it hardens?
If the caramel starts to harden, simply microwave it in 10-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
How do I prevent the chocolate from hardening too quickly?
Work in small batches, reheating the chocolate if necessary. Alternatively, use a double boiler to keep it melted and smooth while working.
Conclusion
Homemade Turtle Candy with Pecans and Caramel is a delicious, traditional candy that’s surprisingly easy to make. With its layered flavors and textures, this treat is perfect for holiday gifting or sharing with loved ones. Enjoy the timeless combination of crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and creamy chocolate with every bite!
