I’ve now been making these for 30 years. My mom made them for 20 years before me

Classic Turtle Candies 🐢🍫

These Classic Turtle Candies are the perfect combination of crunchy toasted pecans, chewy caramel, and smooth melted chocolate. With their rich flavors and elegant presentation, they’re a timeless treat that’s ideal for gifting, holiday platters, or simply indulging in a sweet moment. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these homemade turtle candies are sure to impress.

Let’s dive into how to make these delightful treats step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Simple Ingredients : Only three main components—pecans, caramel, and chocolate—create a decadent treat.
2. Customizable : Use different nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or chocolate varieties (like dark or milk chocolate).
3. Perfect for Gifting : Beautifully packaged turtles make thoughtful homemade gifts.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prepare in advance and store for later enjoyment.
5. No-Bake Simplicity : No oven required after toasting the pecans—just melt, assemble, and set.

Ingredients

(Makes about 24–30 candies)

• Soft Caramels (store-bought or homemade ): 12 ounces
• Pecan Halves : 6 ounces
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips or Bars : 8 ounces

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Toast in the oven for 8–10 minutes , or until fragrant and lightly browned. Stir halfway through for even toasting.
4. Let the pecans cool completely before using.

Step 2: Melt the Caramels

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the soft caramels in 30-second intervals , stirring after each interval until smooth.
   • Tip : Add 1–2 teaspoons of water or heavy cream while melting to achieve a smoother consistency if needed.
2. Alternatively, melt the caramels in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Step 3: Assemble the Turtles

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat .
2. Arrange the toasted pecan halves in clusters of 3–4 pecans , resembling a turtle’s legs and head.
3. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted caramel over each pecan cluster, ensuring the caramel holds the pecans together.
4. Allow the caramel to set for 10–15 minutes at room temperature.

Step 4: Melt the Chocolate

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 30-second intervals , stirring after each interval until smooth.
   • Alternative Method : Melt the chocolate in a double boiler over simmering water for a gentler approach.

Step 5: Coat with Chocolate

1. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, ensuring the caramel is fully covered.
2. Use the back of the spoon to spread the chocolate evenly, creating a smooth, polished finish.
3. Let the chocolate set at room temperature for about 1 hour , or place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 20–30 minutes to speed up the process.

Step 6: Serve and Store

1. Once the chocolate is set, your homemade Turtle Candies are ready to enjoy!
2. Store the candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week , or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks .
   • Tip : Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Tips for Success

1. Toast the Pecans Well : Properly toasted pecans add a deeper, nuttier flavor to the candies.
2. Use High-Quality Chocolate : Opt for premium chocolate chips or bars for the best taste and texture.
3. Experiment with Flavors : Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate for a sweet-and-salty twist.
4. Storage : Keep the candies in a cool, dry place to prevent the chocolate from melting.
5. Freeze for Longer Storage : Freeze the candies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Perfect Pairings

These Classic Turtle Candies pair beautifully with:

• Coffee or Espresso : A warm mug of coffee or espresso balances the sweetness of the candies.
• Milk : A cold glass of milk is the classic pairing for chocolate treats.
• Hot Cocoa : Enjoy alongside a rich cup of hot cocoa for double the chocolatey goodness.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water or champagne for a refreshing contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Candy, Approx.)

(Based on 24 candies)

• Calories : ~90 kcal
• Protein : ~1g
• Carbohydrates : ~10g
• Fat : ~5g
• Fiber : ~0.5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

These Classic Turtle Candies are a simple yet sophisticated treat that combines crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and smooth chocolate into one irresistible bite. Whether you’re gifting them, serving them at a party, or enjoying them as a personal indulgence, they’re sure to bring smiles to everyone who tries them.

The best part? They’re easy to customize, so you can experiment with different nuts, chocolates, or toppings to make them your own. So grab your ingredients, toast those pecans, and get ready to enjoy a treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.