Chocolate Turtles Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 10, 2025

24

Share

Decadent Chocolate Turtles: A Step-by-Step Recipe for Irresistible Treats

Chocolate turtles – the perfect blend of rich dark chocolate, buttery pecans, and creamy caramel – are a classic treat that always impresses. This recipe guides you through making these delightful confections from scratch, ensuring a delicious and memorable experience. Get ready to indulge!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe makes approximately 24 chocolate turtles. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller batches.

• For the Caramel:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup light corn syrup
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into pieces
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

• For the Chocolate Coating:

  • 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup milk chocolate chips (optional, for swirling)

• Other Ingredients:

  • 1 cup pecan halves

Equipment:

• Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
• Medium saucepan (for the caramel)
• Heatproof spatula or spoon
• Double boiler or heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water (for melting chocolate)
• Parchment paper or wax paper
• Small bowl

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making the Caramel:

1. Combine sugar and corn syrup: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and corn syrup. Do not stir.
2. Cook until golden brown: Cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the mixture turns a rich amber color. This takes patience and careful watching – it's crucial to avoid burning the sugar.
3. Add cream (carefully!): Carefully pour in the heavy cream (it will bubble vigorously). Stir constantly until smooth.
4. Incorporate butter, vanilla, and salt: Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and salt until everything is well combined and the caramel is smooth.
5. Cool slightly: Remove from heat and let the caramel cool slightly, about 5-10 minutes.

Assembling the Chocolate Turtles:

1. Prepare the pecans: Arrange the pecan halves on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Spoon caramel: Spoon a small amount of caramel onto the center of each pecan.
3. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the caramel is firm.

Dipping in Chocolate:

1. Melt the chocolate: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. If using, add milk chocolate chips and stir gently to create a swirl.
2. Dip the turtles: Dip each caramel-covered pecan into the melted chocolate, ensuring it's fully coated.
3. Place on parchment paper: Place the dipped turtles onto the parchment paper to set.
4. Chill again: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.

Tips for Success:

• Use a candy thermometer: For precise caramel making, a candy thermometer helps ensure the sugar reaches the correct temperature.
• Don't overcook the caramel: Overcooked caramel will be bitter. Keep a close eye on it!
• Work quickly: Once the caramel is ready, work efficiently to assemble the turtles before it cools and hardens.
• Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different nuts, sea salt, or even sprinkles for added flair!

Storing Your Chocolate Turtles:

Store your finished chocolate turtles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer storage.

Enjoy these homemade chocolate turtles! They're perfect for gifting or enjoying as a special treat. Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!