Classic Turtle Candies: A Timeless Homemade Delight
Classic turtle candies are a beloved sweet treat that brings together three simple yet luxurious ingredients—pecans, caramel, and chocolate. Their charming turtle-like shape and irresistible flavor make them a popular choice for gifts, parties, or simply indulging at home.
What Are Turtle Candies?
Turtle candies get their name from their shape: clusters of pecans resemble a turtle’s limbs, with a dome of caramel and chocolate forming the shell. This iconic candy is not only delicious but also easy to make at home with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients
12 ounces of soft caramels (store-bought or homemade)
6 ounces of pecan halves
8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate (chips or chopped bars)
How to Make Classic Turtle Candies
1. Toast the Pecans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecan halves evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 8 to 10 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. Let them cool before assembling.
2. Melt the Caramel
Unwrap your caramels and place them in a microwave-safe bowl with 1 to 2 tablespoons of water. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Alternatively, use a double boiler over low heat.
3. Arrange the Pecans
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Place 4 to 5 pecan halves in a cluster to form a base for each candy.
4. Add the Caramel
Spoon about a teaspoon of melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster. Let the caramel settle and cool for 10 to 15 minutes at room temperature—or chill in the fridge to speed things up.
5. Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second bursts, stirring until smooth. You can also use a double boiler if you prefer.
6. Top with Chocolate
Drizzle or spoon melted chocolate over each caramel cluster, completely covering the caramel. Smooth it out with the back of a spoon for a polished look.
7. Let Them Set
Allow the turtle candies to set at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours, or refrigerate for about 20 minutes until firm.
8. Store and Enjoy
Once set, store the candies in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep for up to a week at room temperature or two weeks in the fridge.
Tips for Perfect Turtle Candies
Watch the Pecans: Toasting enhances their flavor, but don’t overdo it—burnt pecans will add bitterness.
Keep Caramel Smooth: If it starts to harden while you're working, reheat it gently or stir in a splash of water.
Neat Presentation: Use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner snipped to drizzle chocolate cleanly.
Get Creative: Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a gourmet sweet-and-salty twist.
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