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homemade turtle candies on parchment

Homemade Turtle Candies Recipe

Course: candy, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 20 candies
Calories: 129kcal
Author: Becky Hardin
These homemade turtle candies are a simple, no-bake treat with just 4 ingredients. Crunchy pecans, gooey caramel, and melted chocolate combine for a sweet, chewy candy perfect for gifting or snacking. Ready in minutes and always a crowd-pleaser!
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US Customary - Metric

Equipment

  • Kitchen Scale (optional)
  • Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  • 24 individually-wrapped caramels
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil
  • 1⅛ cups chopped pecans divided
  • ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips

Instructions

  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
  • Place unwrapped caramels in a medium microwave-safe bowl. Microwave caramels in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently, until they are completely melted.
    24 individually-wrapped caramels
    unwrapped soft caramels in a glass bowl.
  • Stir in coconut oil until it melts.
    1 teaspoon coconut oil
    melted caramel with coconut oil in a glass bowl.
  • Stir in 1 cup of the pecans until they are completely coated.
    1⅛ cups chopped pecans
    folding caramel and pecans together in a glass bowl with a rubber spatula.
  • Using a teaspoon, place scoopfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Set aside.
    dolloping pecan-caramel onto a lined baking sheet with two spoons.
  • Microwave the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently, until they are completely melted.
    ¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips
    stirring melted chocolate in a glass bowl with a spoon.
  • Spoon melted chocolate over the caramel clusters.
    spooning melted chocolate over pecan-caramel turtles on a baking sheet.
  • Crush the remaining ⅛ cup (2 tablespoons) of pecans and sprinkle them over top of the chocolate.
 Chill and allow chocolate to harden.
    chocolate and pecan turtle candies topped with crushed pecans on a baking sheet.

Video

Notes

Becky's Top Tips:
  • Optionally, you can briefly toast the pecans in a dry skillet or 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes before mixing. It deepens the nutty flavor and makes the candies taste more gourmet.
  • Sometimes, 30-second intervals can be too long in the microwave. If your chocolate or caramel is almost fully melted, don't be afraid to check up on it before the 30 seconds is up.
  • To add more texture, consider making the nut mixture half pecans and half walnuts.
  • If your melted caramel is still too thick after adding coconut, add more, 1 teaspoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • If the caramel mixture feels sticky when scooping, lightly grease your spoon with nonstick spray; it helps form neat clusters without mess.
  • Let the caramel-nut clusters cool slightly before adding chocolate. This prevents the chocolate from sliding off and creates distinct, glossy layers.
  • If you like salted caramel, add a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the still-warm chocolate along with the crushed pecans.
  • If you’re short on time, pop the baking sheet in the freezer for 15 minutes instead of chilling for hours. Just be sure they’re fully hardened before storing.
  • Once set, place the candies in mini cupcake liners for a polished look. They make perfect homemade holiday gifts or party favors.
Storage: Store turtle candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1candy | Calories: 129kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 0.01g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 30mg | Potassium: 89mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 11g | Vitamin A: 12IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 25mg | Iron: 1mg