Turtle candies are a classic confectionery delight with a fascinating combination of textures and flavors. This recipe combines the smoothness of caramel, the crunchiness of pecans, and the richness of semisweet chocolate to create a delightful homemade treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
The ingredients for this recipe are pretty common and easy to find in any supermarket. However, you might need to look for toasted pecans in the nut aisle. If you can't find toasted pecans, you can easily make them at home by lightly roasting raw pecans in an oven. For the caramels, be sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor and consistency. Semisweet chocolate is typically found in the baking section.
Ingredients for Homemade Turtle Candies
Toasted pecans: These are the base of the turtle candies. They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the candies. If you can't find toasted pecans, you can toast raw pecans in the oven.
Caramels: These offer a sweet and soft texture. Be sure to choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
Water: This is used to help melt the caramels and create a smooth consistency.
Semisweet chocolate: This will be melted and poured over the caramel and pecans to finish off the candies. It adds a sweet and slightly bitter flavor.
One reader, Auberta Chen says:
This homemade turtle candies recipe is a game-changer! The combination of toasted pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate is simply divine. It's easy to make and tastes even better than store-bought. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delightful treat that will impress everyone!
Techniques Required for Making Homemade Turtle Candies
How to toast pecans: Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and lightly browned.
How to melt caramels: Place the caramels and water in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth.
How to melt chocolate: Place the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until fully melted and smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate.
How to assemble turtle candies: After adding the caramel over the pecans, allow it to set for 2-3 minutes before adding the melted chocolate. Then, allow the candies to harden before serving.
How To Make Homemade Turtle Candies
Crunchy pecans are topped with rich caramel and gooey chocolate. Get creative with your dessert recipes and have a go at our turtle candies recipe.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 8oztoasted pecans
- 12ozcaramels
- 1tbspwater
- 12ozsemisweet chocolate
Instructions
-
Make 18 small mounds of pecans on parchment paper, roughly 4 to 5 pecans in each one.
-
Add the caramels and water to a microwave safe bowl and microwave in 30 second increments until fully melted and stirred together fully.
-
Scoop 2 teaspoons of caramel over each set of pecans then let it set for 2 to 3 minutes before adding melted chocolate.
-
Melt the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl in 30 second increments until mixed completely and smooth
-
Scoop 2 teaspoons of chocolate over each caramel cluster then allow the cluster to harden before eating.
Nutrition
- Calories: 249.98kcal
- Fat: 16.27g
- Saturated Fat: 4.60g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.32g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.56g
- Carbohydrates: 28.38g
- Fiber: 2.32g
- Sugar: 23.18g
- Protein: 2.82g
- Cholesterol: 1.32mg
- Sodium: 48.42mg
- Calcium: 40.97mg
- Potassium: 161.09mg
- Iron: 0.94mg
- Vitamin A: 2.65µg
- Vitamin C: 0.21mg
Helpful Technique for Creating Perfect Turtle Candies
To ensure your turtle candies have a smooth and glossy finish, make sure to properly temper your chocolate. This involves melting the chocolate slowly and gently, then cooling it down before using it to coat the caramel and pecan clusters. This process will give your candies a professional-looking sheen and will prevent the chocolate from becoming grainy or dull. Also, using a double boiler to melt the chocolate can help prevent it from burning.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Turtle Candies at Home
Prep ahead: Prepare the pecan mounds and melt the caramels in advance to streamline the assembly process.
Use a double boiler: Melt the chocolate using a double boiler to ensure a smooth and consistent texture without the risk of burning.
Chill for efficiency: Place the assembled candies in the refrigerator to speed up the setting process, allowing you to enjoy them sooner.
Organize your workspace: Arrange all the ingredients and tools in an orderly manner to minimize the time spent searching for items during preparation.
Batch production: Make multiple batches at once to maximize efficiency and minimize the overall time spent in the kitchen.
Opt for store-bought caramel: Save time by using store-bought caramel sauce instead of melting caramels, if preferred.
Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to maintain an organized workspace and reduce the time spent on post-cooking cleanup.
Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools, such as a good quality microwave and double boiler, can help expedite the cooking process and yield better results.
Enlist help: Invite friends or family to assist with the preparation process, making it a fun and efficient group activity.
Plan ahead: Create a detailed plan and timeline for the recipe to ensure that each step is executed efficiently.
Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Turtle Candies Recipe
toasted pecans - Substitute with toasted walnuts: Walnuts have a similar rich, nutty flavor and crunchy texture, making them a great substitute for pecans in this recipe.
caramels - Substitute with dulce de leche: Dulce de leche has a similar sweet, caramelized flavor and creamy texture, making it a suitable replacement for caramels in this recipe.
semisweet chocolate - Substitute with dark chocolate: Dark chocolate has a slightly more intense flavor and less sweetness compared to semisweet chocolate, but it can be used as a substitute in this recipe for a richer chocolate taste.
Presentation Ideas for Turtle Candies
Elevate the plating: When presenting the homemade turtle candies, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a clean, white plate to showcase the rich colors of the chocolate and caramel. Ensure that each candy is placed with precision and care, allowing the pecans to peek through the chocolate for a sophisticated touch.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating artistic drizzling techniques with the melted chocolate. Use a small spoon or piping bag to create delicate, intricate patterns on the plate, adding a touch of finesse to the overall presentation.
Utilize garnishes for contrast: Introduce a pop of color and contrast by incorporating edible garnishes such as a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans around the plate. This not only adds visual interest but also complements the flavors of the homemade turtle candies.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Arrange the candies in a symmetrical and balanced manner on the plate, paying attention to spacing and alignment. This attention to detail demonstrates precision and professionalism in the presentation, appealing to the discerning eye of culinary professionals.
Highlight the craftsmanship: Showcase the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating the homemade turtle candies by presenting them with a minimalist approach. Allow the candies to take center stage, emphasizing their quality and the skill that went into their preparation.
Essential Tools for Making Homemade Turtle Candies
Food processor: A food processor can be used to chop or grind nuts, and it can also be used to make the caramel filling for the turtle candies.
Microwave safe bowl: This is essential for melting the caramels and chocolate in the microwave.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used for lining the baking sheet and for easy removal of the candies once they are set.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon is needed for stirring the melted caramels and chocolate.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to place the parchment paper with the pecan clusters and for setting the turtle candies.
Teaspoon: A teaspoon is used for scooping the caramel and chocolate over the pecan clusters.
Knife: A knife can be used to chop the pecans and to cut the caramel and chocolate into individual candies if needed.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Turtle Candies
- Allow the chocolate to harden completely before storing the turtle candies. This will ensure that the chocolate doesn't smudge or melt when you handle them.
- Store the turtle candies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. Separate each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the turtle candies for up to 3 months:
- Place the candies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the candies until they are solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen candies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating each layer with parchment paper.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- To thaw frozen turtle candies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid refrigerating the candies, as this can cause the chocolate to develop condensation and become sticky.
Interesting Fact About Turtle Candies
The homemade turtle candies recipe is a classic confection that combines the rich flavors of caramel, pecans, and chocolate. This delightful treat is named after its resemblance to a turtle's shell, with the pecans representing the turtle's legs and the chocolate and caramel forming the shell. The combination of sweet, nutty, and chocolatey flavors makes these candies a beloved indulgence for many. Whether enjoyed as a homemade gift or a special treat for yourself, these turtle candies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Is Making Turtle Candies at Home Cost-Effective?
This homemade turtle candies recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients, such as pecans, caramels, and semisweet chocolate, are reasonably priced and can be used for other recipes. The total cost for a household of 4 people would be approximately $10-$15, making it an affordable treat. As a culinary chef, I rate this recipe an 8 for its simplicity, deliciousness, and value for money.
Are Homemade Turtle Candies Healthy or Unhealthy?
This homemade turtle candies recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in sugar, with caramels and semisweet chocolate being the main ingredients. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
- Pecans, although a good source of healthy fats, are calorie-dense. When combined with the caramel and chocolate, the overall calorie count of the recipe becomes quite high.
- The recipe lacks any significant source of vitamins, minerals, or fiber, which are essential for a balanced diet.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use dark chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate. Dark chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa solids, which means it has more antioxidants and less sugar.
- Reduce the amount of caramel used in each cluster. This will help lower the overall sugar content of the recipe.
- Incorporate more nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to increase the protein and healthy fat content.
- Add dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to the clusters for a boost of fiber and natural sweetness.
- Experiment with using dates as a natural sweetener and binder instead of caramel. Dates are high in fiber and contain several vitamins and minerals.
Editor's Opinion on This Homemade Turtle Candies Recipe
This homemade turtle candies recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of caramel, pecans, and chocolate. The method of layering pecans, caramel, and chocolate creates a delicious and visually appealing candy. However, to enhance the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the caramel for a sweet and salty contrast. Additionally, using high-quality chocolate will elevate the overall taste of the candies. Overall, this recipe offers a simple yet indulgent treat that is sure to impress.
Enhance Your Homemade Turtle Candies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Turtle Candies
Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with Turtle Candies
Why trust this Homemade Turtle Candies Recipe:
This recipe is a trusted classic, using only the finest ingredients. The toasted pecans add a rich, nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. The caramels are melted to perfection, creating a luscious, gooey center. The semisweet chocolate is carefully melted and drizzled over the clusters, providing a decadent finish. Each step is meticulously crafted to ensure a delightful, indulgent treat. Trust the expertise behind this recipe and savor the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Was this page helpful?
Have your own special recipe to share? Submit Your Recipe Today!
Related Recipes
Candy Corn Rice Krispies Recipe
Homemade Cotton Candy Recipe
Candy Cane Lollipops Recipe
Easter Chocolate Oreos Recipe
Chocolate Covered Peanut Butter Pretzels Recipe
Fudge Iced Brownies Recipe
Rolled Sugar Cookies Recipe
Easy Pecan Pie Tassies Recipe
-recipe-300x200.jpg)
Wassail (Warm Autumn Punch) Recipe
Easy Lemon-Pesto Gnocchi Shrimp and Asapargus Recipe
Canadian Sugar Pie Recipe
