Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pecan halves, toasted
• 30 soft caramels (about 10 oz)
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or shortening (optional, for smoother chocolate)
• Sea salt for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Toast the Pecans:

• Spread the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Caramel

1. Melt the Caramel:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the caramels and heavy cream. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the caramel is smooth and fully melted.

1. Form the Turtle Clusters:

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Arrange 3-4 toasted pecan halves in small clusters on the baking sheet (about 12 clusters).
• Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the melted caramel onto the center of each pecan cluster, making sure the caramel holds the pecans together. Allow the caramel to set for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Melt the Chocolate

1. Melt the Chocolate:

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and vegetable oil (if using). Microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring in between, until the chocolate is melted and smooth.

1. Top the Turtle Clusters:

• Spoon about 1 tablespoon of melted chocolate over each caramel-pecan cluster, spreading it slightly to cover the caramel.
• Optionally, sprinkle a little sea salt on top of each cluster while the chocolate is still wet.

Step 4: Let the Clusters Set

1. Chill:

• Let the chocolate set at room temperature, or place the baking sheet in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to speed up the process.

1. Serve:

• Once the chocolate is firm, the Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are ready to enjoy!

These homemade turtle clusters are the perfect combination of crunchy pecans, chewy caramel, and rich chocolate. They’re easy to make and a great treat for holidays or gifting!