Name: Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups pecan halves; 1 cup soft caramels (about 25 pieces); 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 ½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother chocolate); Sea salt for sprinkling

Description

Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are irresistible, crunchy treats combining toasted pecans, gooey caramel, and rich melted chocolate. These no-bake clusters are easy to make, perfect for a quick dessert or snack, featuring a delightful balance of sweet and salty flavors with optional sea salt finishing.

Ingredients

Scale

Clusters

2 cups pecan halves

Caramel Layer

1 cup soft caramels (about 25 pieces)
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Chocolate Topping

1 ½ cups semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil or butter (optional, for smoother chocolate)

Optional

Sea salt for sprinkling

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Instructions

Prepare Clusters: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the pecan halves into small clusters of 3–4 pecans each, spacing them apart to avoid sticking during setting.
Melt Caramel: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the mixture is smooth and fully melted, about 1–2 minutes total.
Assemble Clusters: Spoon a dollop of the melted caramel over each pecan cluster, allowing it to drip slightly to bind the pecans together securely.
Set Caramel: Let the caramel set at room temperature for 10–15 minutes, or place in the refrigerator to speed up the process.
Melt Chocolate: In a clean bowl, melt the chocolate chips along with the coconut oil or butter (if using) in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth and glossy.
Top Clusters: Spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate over the caramel-covered pecan clusters, covering them fully or partially based on your preference.
Finish and Chill: Optionally sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the chocolate before chilling. Refrigerate the clusters for 20–30 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set and firm.

Notes

You can use dark, milk, or white chocolate according to your preference.
Store clusters in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks for best freshness.
Toasting the pecans beforehand enhances their flavor and adds extra crunch.