Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Name: Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pecan halves; 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)

Isabella

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These rich and indulgent chocolate pecan turtle clusters are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their combination of sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate, they make for a bite-sized delight that’s both satisfying and decadent. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a sweet snack, these clusters are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe effortlessly brings together three of my favorite ingredients: chocolate, caramel, and pecans. The roasted pecans add a delightful crunch, while the gooey caramel provides a sweet contrast to the rich chocolate. Best of all, these clusters are quick and easy to make, perfect for satisfying my sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, I can customize them to my liking by adjusting the amount of caramel or chocolate. It’s a treat that works for almost any occasion!

Ingredients

1 cup pecan halves

1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for smooth melting)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted. Be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

While the pecans are roasting, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Once the pecans are toasted, arrange 3-4 pecans into small clusters on the prepared baking sheet.

Drizzle a small spoonful of caramel sauce over each pecan cluster, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips with the coconut oil (if using) in 20-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth and melted.

Spoon the melted chocolate over the pecan and caramel clusters, making sure the pecans are fully covered.

Place the sheet in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.

Once the clusters are set, remove them from the fridge and enjoy!

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 clusters

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 7 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

I like to store these chocolate pecan turtle clusters in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to a week. If I want to keep them longer, I’ll store them in the fridge for up to two weeks. There’s no need to reheat these clusters, as they’re best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If I do prefer them warm, I can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to soften the chocolate.

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FAQs

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

Yes! While I love using pecans for their rich flavor and crunch, I can easily swap them for other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or cashews if I prefer.

Can I make the caramel sauce myself?

Absolutely! If I want to make the caramel sauce from scratch, I can combine sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan and cook it until it thickens into a rich sauce. There are plenty of homemade caramel recipes available online that I can try.

Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, I can definitely use dark chocolate if I prefer a less sweet taste. Dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the caramel and pecans, offering a deeper, more complex flavor.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! As long as the caramel sauce and chocolate chips I use are free from gluten-containing ingredients, I can enjoy these clusters without worry.

Can I freeze these chocolate pecan turtle clusters?

Yes! If I have extra clusters or want to make a batch ahead of time, I can freeze them. Just place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to three months. When I’m ready to enjoy them, I can let them thaw at room temperature.

Conclusion

These chocolate pecan turtle clusters are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and crunchy in every bite. The rich caramel, toasted pecans, and smooth chocolate make for an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and hard to resist. Whether for a special occasion or just a quick indulgence, these clusters are sure to be a hit. I love how customizable they are, and I can’t wait to make them again.

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