Homemade Turtle Candy With Pecans and Caramel

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Here’s a detailed and unique article about making Homemade Turtle Candy With Pecans and Caramel, complete with a step-by-step method:


Homemade Turtle Candy With Pecans and Caramel: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate, caramel, and pecans, Turtle Candy is the perfect indulgence. Named for its resemblance to a turtle—with a nutty “shell” and gooey caramel body—this candy is a delightful homemade confection that impresses both kids and adults alike. Making it from scratch may sound intimidating, but with careful steps, you can create a batch of these decadent candies that rival any store-bought version.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

For the base:

  • 1 cup whole pecan halves

For the caramel layer:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

For the chocolate coating:

  • 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil or vegetable oil (optional, for smoother melting)

Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling


Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents the candies from sticking and makes cleanup much easier. Have all ingredients measured and ready, as caramel can go from perfect to burnt quickly.

Step 2: Arrange the Pecans

Place the pecan halves in small clusters or “piles” on the prepared baking sheet. Each cluster will form the center of one turtle candy. Typically, 3–4 pecans per candy work best. Press them together slightly so the caramel can bind them.

Step 3: Make the Caramel

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent burning.
  2. Once the sugar starts to melt and turn a golden amber color, carefully add the butter. It will bubble vigorously—this is normal. Stir until the butter is fully incorporated.
  3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. The mixture will bubble again.
  4. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine.
  5. Allow the caramel to cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Tip: To test if the caramel is ready, drop a small amount into a bowl of cold water. It should form a soft, pliable ball.

Step 4: Pour the Caramel Over the Pecans

Carefully spoon the warm caramel over the pecan clusters, covering them generously but not so much that the candy spreads out too thinly. Work quickly, as caramel hardens as it cools.

Step 5: Chill the Candies

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to let the caramel firm up slightly. You want it set enough to handle but not rock hard.

 

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