Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe
Introduction
Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters are a deliciously sweet treat combining toasted pecans with rich caramel and optional chocolate drizzle. These bite-sized clusters make a perfect indulgence for any chocolate lover.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups pecans
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- Chocolate for drizzling (optional)
- Caramel sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant and slightly golden to enhance their flavor.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir continuously until combined.
- Step 3: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil for 2-3 minutes without stirring to develop the caramel flavor.
- Step 4: Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the toasted pecans. Use a spoon to drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper to cool and set.
- Step 5: Once cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate and caramel sauce if desired for extra decadence.
- Step 6: Let the clusters cool completely before serving and enjoying.
Tips & Variations
- If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes.
- Ensure the caramel mixture is bubbly but not burnt; a candy thermometer reading about 240°F helps achieve the perfect chewy texture.
- Mix the pecans with the caramel just enough to coat them to avoid clumpy clusters.
Storage
Store the clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be refrigerated to extend freshness or frozen in a single layer and then transferred to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy after freezing, let them sit at room temperature or eat them directly from the freezer.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Yes, walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes and will give your clusters a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The caramel should come to a gentle boil and bubble for 2-3 minutes without burning. Using a candy thermometer to reach around 240°F ensures the perfect chewy consistency.
PrintChocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters Recipe
Delicious and easy-to-make Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters featuring toasted pecans coated in a rich brown sugar caramel mixture, optionally drizzled with chocolate and caramel sauce for an indulgent treat perfect for dessert or snacking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: About 20 clusters 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cluster Mixture
- 2 1/2 cups pecans
- 1/2 cup salted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
Optional Toppings
- Chocolate for drizzling
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Toast the Pecans: Begin by toasting the pecans in a skillet over medium heat until they are fragrant and slightly golden. This enhances their flavor tremendously!
- Prepare the Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar, stirring continuously until combined.
- Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil for about 2-3 minutes without stirring. This step is crucial for achieving that delicious caramel flavor.
- Combine and Drop: Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly stir in the toasted pecans. Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto parchment paper to cool and set.
- Drizzle if Desired: Once cooled, you may want to drizzle melted chocolate and caramel sauce over the clusters for extra decadence!
- Enjoy: Let the clusters cool completely and then dig in!
Notes
- If you’re out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure caramel reaches 240°F for perfect chewy texture.
- Avoid overmixing once pecans are added to prevent clumpy texture.
- Store clusters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- Refrigerate to extend shelf life, or freeze individually for up to three months.
- Serve clusters with milk, coffee, vanilla ice cream, brownies or blondies for a complete dessert experience.
Keywords: Chocolate Pecan Turtle Clusters, caramel pecan clusters, toasted pecans, chocolate caramel dessert, easy pecan candy, no bake dessert, pecan treats
