Description
These chocolate pecan turtle clusters are the perfect combination of crunchy pecans, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate. They’re easy to make and absolutely delicious for holiday treats, gifts, or just a sweet snack!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 1/2 cups pecans
- 1/2 cup butter (salted)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
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Toast the Pecans:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool.
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Make the Caramel:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and stir in brown sugar.
- Add heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and salt.
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Assemble the Clusters:
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange small piles of pecans (about 3-4 pecans per cluster).
- Spoon a small amount of caramel over each pile, allowing it to set slightly.
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Melt the Chocolate:
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips with coconut oil in 30-second intervals, stirring each time until smooth.
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Finish the Clusters:
- Drizzle or spoon melted chocolate over each caramel-covered pecan cluster.
- Let the clusters set at room temperature or refrigerate for faster results.
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Enjoy!
- Once firm, remove from parchment paper and store in an airtight container.
Notes
- For a deeper caramel flavor, cook caramel for an extra 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly.
- Use dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet variation.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.
