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Easy Christmas Pecan Turtles Recipe

Easy Christmas Pecan Turtles Recipe

5.2 from 16 reviews

This Easy Christmas Pecan Turtles recipe combines toasted pecans, a rich caramel sauce, and smooth melted chocolate to create a classic holiday treat that’s simple to make and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for gifting or enjoying at festive gatherings, these homemade turtles are crunchy, sweet, and chocolaty all in one bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pecans

  • 2 cups pecans

Caramel Mixture

  • 6 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Chocolate

  • 2 cups chopped chocolate

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread 2 cups of pecans evenly on a baking pan, optionally lined with parchment paper for easy removal. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until nicely toasted. Remove from oven, transfer to a cutting board, chop into smaller pieces, and set aside.
  2. Combine and Cook the Caramel Mixture: Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. In a larger mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with ½ cup light brown sugar, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup light corn syrup, and ½ cup condensed milk. Scrape the bowl thoroughly to include all ingredients and mix with a spatula until fully incorporated. Microwave the mixture for about 6 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  3. Incorporate Pecans and Cool the Mixture: After microwaving, stir in 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the chopped toasted pecans to the caramel mixture, stirring until they are evenly coated. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring it to a pan. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the caramel-pecan mixture.
  4. Melt the Chocolate: Place 2 cups of chopped chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until the chocolate is fully melted, smooth, and lump-free.
  5. Assemble the Turtles Candy: Once the caramel-pecan mixture is firm, use a fork to scoop out portions and dip each into the melted chocolate, ensuring full coverage. Place the chocolate-covered turtles on wax paper to cool and solidify. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set completely.
  6. Enjoy Your Homemade Turtles Candy! Remove the turtles from the refrigerator and enjoy your delicious homemade Christmas turtles. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For easier handling, you can line the baking and cooling pans with parchment or wax paper.
  • Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and smooth melting.
  • Ensure the caramel mixture is not too hot when adding vanilla and pecans to prevent melting the nuts excessively.
  • Store the turtles in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh for up to 2 weeks.
  • Microwaving times may vary depending on your microwave’s power; adjust accordingly and stir well to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Christmas candy, pecan turtles, homemade turtles, holiday treats, caramel pecan chocolate, easy candy recipes