The Ultimate Homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe: Chewy Caramel, Crunchy Pecans, and Rich Chocolate Perfection

There are few confections as beloved, timeless, and perfectly balanced as the classic turtle cluster. This isn’t just candy; it’s a harmonious convergence of texture and flavor: crunchy, toasted pecans forming the base, covered in a lush, homemade soft caramel, and enveloped in a generous layer of rich chocolate. Forget the store-bought versions; once you try these scratch-made Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, you will never go back. While making caramel from scratch might sound intimidating, our step-by-step guide breaks down the process, guaranteeing you a batch of professional-quality, irresistible treats that are perfect for gifting, holiday parties, or simply satisfying that intense caramel-chocolate craving. These homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are rich, decadent, and worth every minute of preparation.

The beauty of the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters lies in their simplicity, relying on high-quality ingredients executed perfectly. We’ll guide you through achieving the perfect soft-ball caramel stage, the essential step for that luxurious chewiness that defines the best turtles. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a confectionery haven, yielding approximately 24 delightful clusters that disappear faster than you can make them. Let’s dive into creating these stunning, melt-in-your-mouth confections.

Why You’ll Love These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters: The Taste of Perfection

If you are searching for a dessert that delivers maximum impact with minimal fuss (considering the payout!), the decision to make these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters is a resounding yes. These clusters aren’t just sweet; they offer a complex flavor profile and texture contrast that makes them truly addictive. Here’s why this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite in your baking repertoire:

A Symphony of Texture and Flavor

The magic starts with the nuts. We insist on toasting the pecans. This crucial step deepens their flavor, transforming the raw nuttiness into a warm, aromatic crunch that provides the essential contrast to the creamy caramel. Once toasted, these pecan bases give the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters their signature shape resembling the back of a turtle shell.

Next comes the star: the soft caramel. Unlike hard, brittle, or overly sweet caramel often found in mass-produced candies, our recipe yields a buttery, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth caramel that doesn’t pull out your fillings. The balance of brown and white sugar, combined with rich heavy cream and a hint of sea salt, creates a depth of flavor that complements the pecans perfectly. Achieving the 240°F (115°C) soft-ball stage is key here, resulting in that perfect, pliable texture that holds its shape but remains wonderfully soft when bitten.

Finally, the chocolate coating seals the deal. Whether you prefer milk chocolate for a sweeter profile, dark chocolate for sophisticated bitterness, or a blend of semi-sweet, the high-quality melting chocolate binds the entire cluster together. The chocolate shell cracks gently when you bite into it, revealing the chewy caramel and crunchy pecans beneath. This multi-layered experience is what sets the homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters apart from any store-bought equivalent.

Customizable Decadence

While the classic turtle recipe calls for pecans, this format is incredibly forgiving and flexible. You can easily adapt the recipe to fit personal preferences or dietary needs (more on variations later). Love sea salt on your caramel? A flaky sprinkle on the wet chocolate takes these clusters to an artisan level. Prefer the intense cocoa punch of dark chocolate? Adjusting the coating is simple. The ability to control the quality of every ingredient—from the freshness of the pecans to the richness of the butter in the caramel—ensures the final product reflects your commitment to truly indulgent treats.

In short, you’ll love these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters because they are an undeniable taste of luxury, achieved right in your own kitchen. They manage to be both comforting and elegant, making them the ideal treat for any occasion.

Why You Should Try This Homemade Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe Today

The allure of making candy from scratch often feels reserved for professional bakers or grandmothers with secret recipes. However, this recipe for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters is designed to be accessible, rewarding, and deeply satisfying. If you are on the fence about pulling out the candy thermometer, here are compelling reasons why you should make these delightful clusters immediately.

The Sheer Joy of Homemade Caramel

Mastering homemade caramel is a culinary milestone, and this recipe provides the perfect opportunity. Store-bought caramel often relies on corn syrup and artificial stabilizers, yielding a consistent but often lackluster flavor. Our recipe uses simple, whole ingredients: butter, cream, and sugar. The resulting flavor is rich, complex, and unbelievably creamy. Successfully bringing the caramel to the soft-ball stage (240°F / 115°C) is a huge confidence booster in the kitchen, proving that decadent candy is well within your grasp. The time spent stirring and watching the temperature pays off exponentially in the quality of the final Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Perfect for Gifting and Holidays

When holidays roll around (or any special occasion, really), few homemade gifts are received with as much enthusiasm as these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters. They look sophisticated, travel well, and taste far superior to anything available commercially. Arranging them in a festive tin or box makes for a highly personalized and luxurious present. Because the recipe yields about two dozen clusters, it’s an efficient way to make a large volume of beautiful, high-end confections for hostess gifts, teacher appreciation, or party favors. These clusters are particularly popular during the winter months, offering a comforting, rich texture perfect alongside a cup of coffee or a Slow Cooker Hot Chocolate.

Controlling Ingredient Quality and Freshness

When you make candy at home, you dictate the ingredients. You can choose premium chocolate (such as single-origin dark chocolate), fresh, local butter, and the highest quality pecans. For those conscious about preservatives or unnecessary fillers, homemade treats provide peace of mind. Moreover, the freshness is unmatched; the toasted pecans and creamy caramel are at their peak flavor shortly after assembly, offering a sensory experience that pre-packaged treats simply cannot replicate.

If you’ve been looking for that signature confection to define your baking reputation, these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are it. They embody classic Southern dessert richness, balanced by the toasted nuttiness, ensuring every single bite is purely pleasurable.

Essential Ingredients and Tools for Perfect Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Success in candy making starts with preparation. Gathering your exact ingredients and the right tools before you even turn on the stove is paramount, especially when working with temperature-sensitive elements like caramel and chocolate. Below is a detailed breakdown of everything you need to create impeccable Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Ingredients: The Foundation of Flavor

For the Pecan Bases:

• 2 cups (about 8 ounces) raw pecan halves: Use fresh, raw halves rather than pieces for the best presentation and structure. Pecans are the traditional star of Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters and provide healthy fats and fiber.
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional): If you choose to toast your nuts separately, a light sprinkle of salt enhances the natural oils released during heating.

For the Homemade Soft Caramel:

This is the heart of the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters. Precision in measurement is key here.

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into chunks: Using high-quality butter contributes significantly to the rich, creamy flavor of the caramel. Cutting it into chunks ensures even melting.
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Provides moisture and molasses flavor, contributing to the caramel’s depth and chewiness.
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar: Essential for structure and sweetness.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (at room temperature): This is crucial. If the cream is cold, it can shock the hot sugar mixture, causing crystallization or cooling the caramel too quickly. Ensure it is at room temperature before starting.
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: A necessary addition to balance the intense sweetness of the sugars. Do not skip the salt!
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract: Added at the end to enhance the aroma and flavor. Use pure extract, not imitation, for the best results.

For the Chocolate Coating:

• 12 ounces high-quality melting chocolate: The choice of chocolate dictates the final profile of your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters. A mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate (6 oz each) is often the perfect compromise. Use quality brands designed for melting and dipping, like Ghirardelli or Guittard wafers, for the smoothest finish.
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil (optional): This step is highly recommended, especially when using standard chocolate chips, as it acts as a thinning agent. It helps the chocolate melt into a thinner, glossier consistency, making dipping much easier and ensuring a beautiful, smooth shell that sets nicely.

Necessary Utensils and Tools

Candy making requires a few specialized tools to ensure accuracy and safety. Investing in these ensures your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters turn out perfect every time:

• Heavy-Bottomed 3-Quart Saucepan: The heavy bottom distributes heat evenly, which is vital for preventing the caramel from scorching, a common pitfall in candy making.
• Candy Thermometer: This is absolutely non-negotiable. Achieving the precise soft-ball stage of 240°F (115°C) requires a calibrated thermometer. Guessing the temperature will result in caramel that is either too soft (runny) or too hard (brittle).
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: Essential for lining baking sheets. The caramel is sticky, and parchment ensures the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters release easily once cooled.
• Two Large Baking Sheets: Needed for both toasting the pecans and assembling the clusters.
• Wooden Spoon or Heatproof Silicone Spatula: Necessary for stirring the caramel mixture, particularly at the beginning to ensure the sugar dissolves. Avoid metal spoons that conduct heat too quickly.
• Microwave-Safe Bowl or Double Boiler: Used for melting the chocolate coating gently.
• Small Spoon or Measuring Spoon (Metal): Ideal for dolloping the warm caramel over the pecan clusters accurately.
• Forks or Dipping Tools: If you plan to fully submerge your clusters in chocolate, dipping forks make the process clean and easy.

By ensuring all ingredients are measured and your tools are ready, you set yourself up for a stress-free and successful execution of these incredible Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Decadent Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Follow these detailed steps carefully, paying close attention to temperature and timing, and you will achieve flawless Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Step 1: Prepare and Toast the Pecans (Prep Time: 10 minutes)

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Parchment is key for easy release later.
2. Toast for Flavor: Spread the 2 cups of pecan halves in a single layer on one of the prepared baking sheets. Toast them in the preheated oven for 6 to 8 minutes. Crucial Tip: Pecans contain delicate oils and can go from perfectly toasted to burnt very quickly. Watch them closely and remove them as soon as they become fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Cool and Arrange: Remove the toasted pecans from the oven and allow them to cool completely. Once cool, arrange them onto the second parchment-lined baking sheet. Create small clusters of three or four nuts, positioning them close together, resembling the feet and head of a turtle extending from a center point. Ensure generous space between each cluster, as they will spread slightly when the caramel is added.

Step 2: Master the Soft Caramel (Cook Time: 10-15 minutes)

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In the heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine the cut unsalted butter, light brown sugar, granulated white sugar, and the room temperature heavy whipping cream.
2. Dissolve and Melt: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the butter is completely melted and the sugar has fully dissolved. This initial stirring prevents crystallization later.
3. Boil Time: Bring the mixture to a gentle, steady boil, continuing to stir occasionally (but not constantly) to prevent sticking at the bottom. Reduce the heat slightly if the boil becomes too vigorous; it needs to be maintained at a steady rate.
4. The Soft-Ball Stage (240°F / 115°C): Clip your candy thermometer to the side of the pot, ensuring the tip is submerged but not touching the bottom. Continue boiling the caramel mixture without stirring (or stirring very minimally) until the temperature registers exactly 240°F (115°C). Achieving 240°F is critical for the ideal chewiness of your Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your stovetop.
5. Remove and Flavor: Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat once 240°F is reached. Stir in the vanilla extract and the 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Be extremely careful; the addition of vanilla can cause the hot mixture to bubble up violently.
6. Cool Slightly: Allow the caramel to rest in the pan for about 3 to 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps the caramel thicken slightly, preventing it from running off the pecans excessively when poured.

Step 3: Assemble the Caramel and Pecan Base (Chill Time: 15-30 minutes)

1. Dollop the Caramel: Working swiftly while the caramel is still warm and pourable, use a small spoon or metal measuring tablespoon to generously dollop the caramel over the center of each pecan cluster. The goal is to cover the center and bind the three or four nuts together firmly.
2. Setting the Clusters: Allow the clusters to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or place them in the refrigerator for 15 minutes. The caramel must be completely set and firm to the touch before proceeding to the chocolate dipping stage.

Step 4: Melt and Temper the Chocolate Coating

1. Prepare the Chocolate: Place the 12 ounces of melting chocolate (and the optional 1 tablespoon of shortening or coconut oil for gloss) in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Melt Gradually: Microwave the chocolate on high power in short, 30-second intervals. Stop, stir thoroughly, and repeat. Continue until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. Alternatively, melt the chocolate using a double boiler over gently simmering water, stirring until glossy and uniform. Do not overheat the chocolate, as it will seize and become grainy.

Step 5: Dip and Finish the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters (Chill Time: 30 minutes)

You have two options for coating your clusters:

• Classic Dipping Method (Fully Coated): Use dipping tools or two forks. Carefully submerge each cooled caramel-pecan cluster completely into the melted chocolate. Lift it out, allowing excess chocolate to drip back into the bowl. Place the fully coated cluster back onto the clean parchment paper.
• Traditional Drizzling Method (Bottoms Clean): If you prefer the classic look where the caramel and pecans are visible beneath the chocolate, leave the bottom of the cluster clean. Use a spoon to liberally drizzle the melted chocolate over the tops of the caramel clusters until they are adequately coated, letting the chocolate flow down the sides.

Finishing Touch: While the chocolate is still wet, you can sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cluster for an elevated flavor profile.

Setting Time: Let the completed Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters rest at room temperature or chill them in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes until the chocolate shell is completely hardened and set. Store these gourmet treats in an airtight container at cool room temperature for up to one week, or refrigerate for longer storage.

Tips, Troubleshooting, and Delicious Variations for Your Turtle Clusters

Mastering candy making often comes down to attention to detail. Here are essential tips, solutions to common problems, and exciting variations to elevate your batch of Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters.

Caramel Troubleshooting: Avoiding Common Mistakes

The caramel step is the most challenging, but with these tips, you can ensure success:

• Problem: Caramel is Grainy. This often happens if sugar crystals cling to the sides of the saucepan and fall back into the boiling mixture, initiating crystallization. Tip: Ensure you stir well until all sugar dissolves initially. If crystals form, you can carefully brush down the sides of the pot with a pastry brush dipped in water during the boiling phase.
• Problem: Caramel is Too Hard/Brittle. This means the temperature went too high. If the caramel exceeds 245°F, it enters the firm-ball stage. Solution: You can try adding a tablespoon or two of hot water or cream back into the caramel while stirring vigorously off the heat, but prevention is best. Trust your thermometer!
• Problem: Caramel is Too Runny. The temperature did not reach 240°F. Solution: Return the caramel to the heat and continue to boil until the thermometer accurately registers 240°F. Never eyeball caramel temperature.
• Essential Safety Tip: Caramel is extremely hot. Never touch boiling caramel. If you get hot caramel on your skin, run it under cool water immediately.

Chocolate and Dipping Perfection

To ensure your chocolate coating is glossy and crack-free:

• Use Good Quality Chocolate: Cheap chocolate contains stabilizers that can make it difficult to melt smoothly. Using chocolate wafers or high-quality bars chopped finely yields the best results.
• Keep Water Away: Water is the enemy of melted chocolate. Even a single drop can cause it to seize (turn thick and grainy). Ensure all your utensils are perfectly dry, especially when using the double boiler method.
• Thinning Agent: The optional shortening or coconut oil is highly recommended. It lowers the viscosity of the melted chocolate, creating a thinner coating that hardens faster and is glossier than straight melted chocolate.

Delicious Variations on the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Theme

While the classic pecan turtle is unbeatable, these variations offer exciting alternatives:

• Nut Substitutions: Not a pecan fan? Swap the pecans for salted cashews, toasted walnuts (which provide a slightly more bitter note), or roasted almonds. You can even try a mix of nuts for a “mixed nut turtle cluster.”
• Vegan Turtle Clusters: Substitute the dairy butter for a high-quality vegan butter stick and replace the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk (the thick, white part only). The temperature control remains the same (240°F). Ensure your chocolate is certified dairy-free.
• Gluten-Free Status: Naturally, these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are gluten-free, making them an excellent choice for sharing with those who have sensitivities.
• White Chocolate Turtles: For a completely different flavor, use high-quality white melting chocolate for the coating. White chocolate pairs beautifully with the richness of the caramel and the toasted pecans.
• Spice it Up: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon or a small pinch of cayenne pepper to the caramel just before adding the vanilla for a subtle, unexpected warmth.

Need more decadent dessert inspiration? Try our guide to making the perfect Easy Chocolate Fudge, which uses similar melting techniques, or indulge in a classic Southern treat like Pecan Pie Cobbler.

Nutritional Overview and Benefits of Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

While Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are undeniably a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, they contain components that offer genuine health benefits, primarily derived from the nuts and chocolate.

Approximate Nutritional Values (Per Cluster Estimate, based on 24 clusters):

• Calories: 180-220 kcal
• Total Fat: 15-18g
• Saturated Fat: 8-10g
• Cholesterol: 25-35mg
• Sodium: 50-70mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12-15g
• Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
• Total Sugars: 10-13g
• Protein: 2g

Note: These values are approximations and vary significantly based on the size of the clusters and the type of chocolate used (dark chocolate generally has less sugar than milk chocolate).

The Benefits of Pecans and Dark Chocolate

The primary ingredients in these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters contribute more than just great flavor:

1. Pecans: A Nutritional Powerhouse: Pecans are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats (oleic acid), similar to those found in olive oil. They are an excellent source of dietary fiber and protein, contributing to satiety. Furthermore, pecans are loaded with antioxidants, particularly Vitamin E, which helps protect the body against cellular damage. They also contain essential minerals like manganese, copper, and zinc.
2. Chocolate’s Antioxidant Properties: If you opt for dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher) for your coating, you introduce potent antioxidants called flavonoids. These compounds have been linked to improved blood flow and reduced risk of heart disease. Dark chocolate also contains minerals like iron, magnesium, and copper. Even semi-sweet chocolate offers some of these benefits, making these clusters a slightly more “nutritious” dessert choice compared to those made solely from refined sugars.
3. Energy Boost: The combination of natural fats from the nuts and sugars from the caramel provides a dense source of energy, making these Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters a satisfying pick-me-up.

Enjoying these homemade treats is all about balance. The high-quality fats and nutrients from the toasted pecans make these an indulgent treat you can feel slightly better about enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Homemade Confection

Congratulations! You have successfully mastered the art of making homemade, utterly decadent Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters. This recipe proves that the very best candies are often those crafted carefully by hand, utilizing simple, fresh ingredients. From the aromatic crunch of the freshly toasted pecans to the buttery chew of the 240°F soft caramel, capped off with a snap of glossy chocolate, every element of these clusters is designed for maximum flavor impact.

These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are more than just a sweet treat; they are a celebration of classic Southern confectionery, perfect for elevating any occasion. Whether you are packaging them up as thoughtful holiday gifts or reserving them solely for your own indulgence, the superior quality and taste of this homemade batch are undeniable. We highly encourage you to try different chocolate coatings or nuts on your next attempt to find your ultimate personal favorite variation.

Don’t forget to save this recipe for future use and share your beautiful creations! Tag us in your pictures and let us know in the comments how your caramel turned out. For more indulgent and crowd-pleasing dessert ideas, check out our rich Texas Sheet Cake recipe. And for even more visual inspiration and recipes, follow us on Pinterest: See More Recipes Blog Pinterest.

Happy candy making! We know these rich, chewy, crunchy Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters will bring immense joy to your table.

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters (Homemade Caramel Candy)

Decadent homemade soft caramel, perfectly toasted pecans, and rich chocolate combine to create the ultimate classic candy clusters—perfect for holiday gifting or an indulgent treat.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Candy, Dessert, Holiday

Cuisine American, Southern

Servings 24 pieces

Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

• Heavy-Bottomed Saucepan (3-Quart)
• Candy thermometer
• Baking Sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Microwave-safe bowl or double boiler

Ingredients

  

For the Pecan Bases

• 2 cups raw pecan halves (about 8 ounces)
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt optional, for topping or mixing with nuts

For the Homemade Soft Caramel

• 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks), cut into chunks
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream at room temperature
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Coating

• 12 ounces high-quality melting chocolate milk chocolate, semi-sweet, or combination
• 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening or coconut oil optional, for smoothness

Instructions

 

Step 1: Prepare and Arrange Pecans

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Spread the pecan halves in a single layer and toast for 6 to 8 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool completely.
• Once cooled, arrange the pecans onto the parchment-lined baking sheets in small clusters of three or four nuts, positioned close together. Ensure you leave adequate space between each cluster for the caramel to spread.

Step 2: Cook the Soft Caramel

• In a heavy-bottomed 3-quart saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, both sugars, and heavy whipping cream. Place over medium heat, stirring constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar has dissolved.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle, steady boil. Clip a candy thermometer to the side of the pot and continue boiling, stirring only occasionally, until the caramel reaches the soft-ball stage: 240°F (115°C). This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
• Immediately remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the vanilla extract and the 1/2 teaspoon of fine sea salt. Allow the caramel to cool slightly in the pan for 3 to 5 minutes to thicken slightly before pouring.

Step 3: Assemble and Set the Clusters

• Working quickly while the caramel is still warm, use a small spoon (or measuring tablespoon) to dollop the caramel generously over the center of each pecan cluster, binding the nuts together. Be careful not to use too much, or the caramel will pool excessively.
• Allow the clusters to cool completely and set the caramel. This can take 30 minutes at room temperature, or 15 minutes if placed in the refrigerator. The caramel must be firm to the touch before dipping.

Step 4: Chocolate Coating and Finishing

• Melt the chocolate and optional shortening/oil in a microwave-safe bowl (30-second intervals) or over a double boiler until perfectly smooth and glossy.
• Dip Method: Carefully dip the bottom of each caramel-pecan cluster into the chocolate, or fully submerge the entire cluster using two forks. Return the finished turtle to clean parchment paper. Drizzle Method: Use a fork or spoon to liberally drizzle the chocolate over the tops of the set caramel clusters.
• Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top while the chocolate is still wet. Let the completed clusters rest or chill for 30 minutes until the chocolate shell is completely hardened. Store in an airtight container.

Notes

Always use a candy thermometer when making caramel; accuracy is key to achieving the perfect soft texture. If your caramel becomes too hard, you can melt it gently with a tablespoon of water or cream and reheat to 240°F. For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips or bar chocolate designed for melting or tempering.

Keyword caramel, chocolate, Gifting, homemade candy, pecan, Turtles