Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters

These Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a timeless favorite! Made with just a few simple ingredients — buttery pecans, chewy caramel, and smooth melted chocolate — they’re sweet, nutty, and totally addictive. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a party, or as homemade gifts, these treats look elegant and taste divine.

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cup pecan halves

1 stick butter butter

1 packed cup brown sugar

1/2 cup light corn syrup

3/4 cup + 2 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1 12 ounce package milk chocolate chips

1/2 teaspoon shortening

Instructions
Toast the Pecans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Spread pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes, until fragrant.

Let cool completely.

Arrange Clusters

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Place 3–4 pecan halves together in small clusters.

Make the Caramel Layer

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt caramels with heavy cream in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.

Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel over the center of each pecan cluster.

Let them cool and set for 10–15 minutes.

Add the Chocolate

Melt chocolate chips with oil in the microwave (20–30 seconds at a time, stirring until smooth).

Spoon a small amount over each caramel-covered pecan cluster.

Optionally, sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for flavor contrast.

Chill

Refrigerate for about 30 minutes, or until chocolate is set.

Store in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

Wrap in candy bags or boxes for holiday gifts.

Serve with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.

Use them as toppings for ice cream or brownies!

Storage & Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

For longer storage, refrigerate (up to 1 month).

Do not freeze — it can affect the caramel texture.