Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters—an indulgent treat so delightful that everyone who tastes them refers to them as “crack”!
Ingredients for Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters:
– 2 1/2 cups pecans
– 1/2 cup salted butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 7 ounces sweetened condensed milk (half of a 14-ounce can)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 8 ounces semi-sweet or milk chocolate (melted)
Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until they become fragrant. Allow them to cool.
2. Prepare the Caramel:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, corn syrup, and sweetened condensed milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring continuously for 5–7 minutes until the caramel reaches 240°F (soft ball stage) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat and mix in the vanilla extract.
3. Form the Clusters:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Create small clusters of pecans (approximately 3–4 per cluster). Pour the warm caramel over each cluster, allowing it to settle.
4. Coat with Chocolate:
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval until smooth. Spoon or drizzle the melted chocolate over each cluster, ensuring the caramel is fully covered.
5. Set and Enjoy:
Let the clusters cool and set at room temperature, or refrigerate for faster results. Store them in an airtight container.
These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are chewy, nutty, and perfectly sweet—sure to be devoured quickly! Enjoy!
