Homemade Turtle Candies

 Homemade Turtle Candies are a classic, decadent treat that are surprisingly easy to make. They’re far superior to store-bought versions, with their perfect combination of salty, buttery pecans, rich caramel, and smooth chocolate.

Here is a foolproof and delicious recipe.

Homemade Turtle Candies

This recipe uses a simple, foolproof caramel that sets up perfectly for dipping.

Yields: About 24-30 candies
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes (for caramel)
Setting time: 30 minutes

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Ingredients

• For the Base & Topping:

  • 2 cups pecan halves (about 6-7 oz)

  • 8 oz high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped (or high-quality chocolate chips)

  • Flaky sea salt (like Maldon), for garnish

• For the Homemade Caramel:

  • ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream, divided

  • ⅓ cup (110g) light corn syrup (or golden syrup)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Clusters

1. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Create small clusters of pecans by arranging 3-4 halves in a star shape, with a few in the center. This will be the base for each turtle. Set the tray aside.

Step 2: Make the Caramel

1. In a medium, heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in the sugar, ½ cup of the heavy cream, and the corn syrup until well combined.

3. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once boiling, insert a candy thermometer.

4. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture reaches 245°F (118°C), the firm-ball stage. This will take about 5-7 minutes.

5. Carefully and slowly whisk in the remaining ½ cup of heavy cream. The mixture will bubble up vigorously.

6. Return the thermometer and continue cooking, stirring, until it reaches 245°F (118°C) again.

7. Immediately remove from heat and whisk in the vanilla extract and salt.

Step 3: Assemble the Turtles

1. Let the caramel cool for just 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly.

2. Using a spoon, carefully dollop a generous tablespoon of warm caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster. Aim to cover the centers well and let the caramel ooze into the gaps.

3. Let the caramel-topped pecan clusters cool completely and firm up at room temperature. This can take 20-30 minutes.

Step 4: Coat with Chocolate

1. Melt the chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) or in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring each time, until smooth.

2. Using a fork or a dipping tool, dip each cooled caramel-pecan cluster into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully covered.

3. Lift it out, let the excess chocolate drip off, and return it to the parchment paper.

4. While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle the top with a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt.

5. Let the chocolate set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

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✨ Pro-Tips for Perfect Turtles

• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This is essential to prevent the caramel from scorching.

• Don’t Stir Too Vigorously While Boiling: Stir gently to avoid creating air bubbles in your caramel.

• Patience with the Caramel: Rushing the caramel or not getting it to the correct temperature is the most common mistake. The right temperature is crucial for a firm, non-sticky texture.

• Cool the Caramel Clusters: Ensure the caramel is completely firm before dipping in chocolate. If it’s still soft, it will melt into the chocolate.

• Tempering Chocolate (Optional): For a professional, snappy finish that doesn’t melt in your hands, you can temper your chocolate. For simplicity, simply melting it works perfectly for home enjoyment.

• Storage: Store finished turtles in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 2 weeks. They can be layered between sheets of parchment paper.

Enjoy the process and the incredible results! These homemade turtles make for a wonderful gift or a special treat.