Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of homemade Turtles Candies. These delectable treats feature a harmonious combination of gooey caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth milk chocolate. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate this beloved American candy right in your own kitchen. Perfect as a gift or for satisfying your sweet tooth, these homemade Turtles Candies will surely be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the pecan halves in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until fragrant and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- In a small saucepan, combine the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the caramels are melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Take a spoonful of the caramel mixture and drop it onto the baking sheet, forming a small mound. Repeat this process to make a total of 12 caramel mounds.
- Gently press a toasted pecan half into the center of each caramel mound, allowing the caramel to ooze around the pecan.
- Place the baking sheet with the caramel and pecan clusters in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes, or until the caramel sets.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the milk chocolate chips and vegetable oil. Heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring well after each interval, until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
- Remove the baking sheet from the refrigerator. Using a fork, carefully dip each caramel-pecan cluster into the melted chocolate, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off.
- Return the coated turtles candies to the parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate hardens.
- Once the chocolate has hardened, transfer the turtles candies to an airtight container, layering them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Store the in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
- Enjoy these heavenly homemade Turtles Candies as a delightful dessert or share them as a thoughtful homemade gift!
Interesting Facts
Turtles Candies were first created in 1918 by the Johnson Candy Company in Chicago.
The name 'Turtles' was inspired by the candy's turtle-like appearance.
The original Turtles Candies were made with cashews, but pecans became the popular choice over time.