👩🍳 How to Make Homemade Turtle Candy
Step 1: Prep the tray
Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and spray lightly with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Arrange pecans
Lay 4 pecan halves together in a little cluster (like turtle legs). Repeat across the tray.
Step 3: Melt the caramel
Unwrap caramels and place in a microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 tbsp water if needed to soften.
Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until melted and smooth. Let it cool for 1 minute.
Step 4: Add the caramel
Spoon a dollop of caramel onto each pecan cluster. No need to be perfect—rustic is the vibe here!
Step 5: Melt the chocolate
Melt chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler, stirring until smooth.
Step 6: Top with chocolate
Spoon chocolate over the caramel, letting it gently spread to cover the mound.
Step 7: Chill
Place tray in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until fully set.
Step 8: Serve or store
Serve at room temp for best texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or a cool pantry for up to 2 weeks.
🍽 What to Serve with Turtle Candies
These make the perfect addition to:
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Holiday cookie platters
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Dessert boards with fruits and cheeses
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Coffee or tea after dinner
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Gift boxes and treat bags
Wrap them in parchment and pop them in a mason jar for the cutest edible gift ever!
💡 Tips for the Best Turtle Candy
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Toast your pecans! It enhances their buttery flavor big time.
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Use a cookie scoop for even portions of caramel and chocolate.
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Don’t overheat the chocolate or it may seize—melt gently.
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Let them cool completely before removing from the tray to avoid sticking.
📦 Storage Instructions
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Room temperature: In a cool, dry place for 5–7 days.
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Fridge: Up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.
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Freezer: Freeze in layers between wax paper for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
ℹ️ General Information
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Yield: About 24 turtle candies
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Prep time: 20 minutes
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Chill time: 30 minutes
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Skill level: Beginner-friendly!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade caramel?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite soft caramel recipe, go for it. Just make sure it’s thick and chewy, not sauce-like.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes! Use dairy-free caramels and vegan chocolate, and you’re good to go.
Do I need to temper the chocolate?
Not for this recipe. Since we’re chilling the candies, regular melting works fine.
Can kids help make these?
Totally! Just assist with the hot caramel and chocolate. Kids love arranging the pecans and adding toppings.
✨ In Conclusion
There’s something magical about these homemade turtle candies. They’re nostalgic, elegant, easy, and endlessly giftable. And the best part? You only need three ingredients to make something that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end chocolate shop.
Go ahead—make a batch. Keep a few for yourself (you deserve it!), and share the rest with someone you love.
