Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 73 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 clusters
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Delight in these easy-to-make Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, a perfect combination of crunchy pecans, creamy caramel, and rich melted chocolate. These no-bake treats come together in just 25 minutes, ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests with a homemade dessert featuring a touch of sea salt for balance.


Ingredients

Scale

Clusters

  • 1 cup pecan halves

Caramel Layer

  • 1 cup soft caramel candies, unwrapped
  • 2 tablespoons heavy cream

Chocolate Topping

  • 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (or a mix of both)

Garnish (Optional)

  • Sea salt, for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent the clusters from sticking during assembly.
  2. Arrange the Pecans: Place pecan halves into small clusters of 3-4 pecans each on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they touch in the center to create a stable base.
  3. Make the Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream. Microwave in 15-20 second intervals, stirring after each, until the caramel is smooth and fully melted, which should take about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add Caramel to Clusters: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the melted caramel over the center of each pecan cluster, covering where the pecans meet. Allow the caramel to set for a few minutes so it firms up and holds the pecans together.
  5. Melt the Chocolate: In a separate microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips by microwaving in 20-second intervals, stirring between each until the chocolate is smooth and completely melted.
  6. Top with Chocolate: Spoon the melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, ensuring the caramel layer is fully covered. For a polished appearance, smooth the chocolate with the back of your spoon.
  7. Add Sea Salt (Optional): While the chocolate is still wet, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cluster to enhance the flavor contrast.
  8. Cool and Set: Let the clusters set at room temperature for about an hour to allow the chocolate to harden. Alternatively, refrigerate them for 15-20 minutes for faster setting.
  9. Serve: Once set, carefully peel the clusters off the parchment paper and enjoy these decadent treats.

Notes

  • Use soft caramel candies for easy melting and smooth texture.
  • Mix semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness.
  • Sea salt garnish is optional but recommended for flavor contrast.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerated for longer freshness.
  • Microwave times may vary depending on the power of your microwave; monitor closely to prevent burning.