1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
For Assembly:
2 cups whole pecans, toasted
12 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
1 teaspoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for shine)
Optional Garnish:
Flaky sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes, until fragrant.
Let cool, then arrange 4-5 pecans in clusters on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 2: Make the Caramel
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Stir in brown sugar, granulated sugar, and corn syrup. Bring to a gentle boil.
Slowly stir in sweetened condensed milk.
Cook, stirring constantly, for 10–15 minutes until caramel reaches 235°F (soft-ball stage) or until it thickens and turns a golden amber color.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and salt.
Step 3: Assemble the Turtles
Carefully spoon caramel over each pecan cluster, making sure to cover the nuts.
Let cool completely until caramel is firm (you can speed this up in the refrigerator).
Step 4: Add the Chocolate
Melt chocolate chips with coconut oil (if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Spoon melted chocolate over each caramel cluster.
Top with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt if desired.
Let set at room temperature or refrigerate until firm.
💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Turtles
Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent the caramel from burning
Stir constantly while making caramel to avoid scorching
Don’t rush the cooling process — properly set caramel is worth the wait!
Toast your pecans for the best flavor
Add a pinch of espresso powder to the chocolate for depth
Storage & Gifting Tips
Storing:
Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks
Layer between parchment paper to prevent sticking
Can be refrigerated for up to 1 month
Gifting:
Package in decorative boxes or tins
Separate layers with parchment or wax paper
Include a note with storage instructions
🌟 Why This Recipe Works
The combination of textures—crunchy pecans, chewy caramel, and smooth chocolate—creates the perfect balance. Making your own caramel allows you to control the sweetness and consistency, resulting in a far superior treat to anything you can buy in stores.
Final Sweet Thought
These homemade turtle candies are more than just a treat—they’re little edible treasures that show you care. Perfect for the holidays, special occasions, or just because, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Have you ever made homemade candy before? What’s your favorite sweet-and-salty combination? Share your experiences in the comments below! 👇
