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Process shots of how to make chocolate pecan turtle clusters
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4.98 from 38 votes

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters 

These easy Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a classic holiday treat. Made with toasted pecans, homemade caramel sauce and chocolate, everyone adores this turtle candy.
Prep Time15 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: chocolate turtles, pecan clusters, turtle candy
Servings: 30
Calories: 184kcal
Author: Jill

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups pecan halves
  • 1 stick butter
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • 12 ounces milk chocolate chips
  • 1/2 teaspoon shortening

Instructions

  • In a large skillet, toast the pecans over medium high heart for a few minutes.
  • Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
  • Arrange the toasted pecans in groups of 3 leaving about an inch of space between each group. Set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
  • Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Cook and stir continuously until it reaches 235-240F on a candy thermometer.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
  • Drizzle about 1/2 tablespoon of caramel over each cluster, set aside.
  • Fill a pot about 1/4 of the way with water, and fit with a bowl that won't touch the bottom of the pot to create a double boiler.
  • Heat the pot over medium heat.
  • After letting it heat up for a few minutes, start to stir the chocolate chips until they are fully melted and smooth.
  • Stir in the shortening and spoon about 1/2 tablespoon on the top of each cluster.
  • Once the chocolate has cooled serve immediately or store in an airtight container with parchment paper between each layer of clusters.

Nutrition

Calories: 184kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 4mg | Sodium: 23mg | Potassium: 72mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 23g | Vitamin A: 51IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 0.4mg