Homemade turtle candy is so good and easy to make, you'll wonder why you have never made it before. All that's needed really are 3 ingredients and just a little bit of time to have a great candy.
non-stick cooking spray
12 oz. soft caramels, homemade or store-bought, unwrapped
6 oz. pecan halves, toasted
8 oz. semi-sweet chocolate, chips are fine
Cover a cookie sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper; spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Arrange pecans in clusters of 4, with each pecan pointing in a different direction like turtle legs or an 'X'.
Place unwrapped caramels in a microwave-safe bowl. If they are very stiff, add a spoonful of water to make them softer. Microwave them until melted, stirring after every 30 seconds.
Allow caramel to cool slightly, so it's not piping-hot; use a spoon to drop a spoonful of caramel onto each pecan cluster. They are a rustic candy, so don't worry about the turtles looking round or some of the pecans poking through.
Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Spoon chocolate over the caramel layer, letting some drip down the sides, and nudging it around so it covers the top of the caramel completely.
Place the baking sheet of candies in the refrigerator to fully set the chocolate and caramel, for at least 30 minutes.
For the best taste and texture, serve the turtles at room temperature. Extras can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or at cool room temperature for up to two weeks.
Serve candy at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
Makes about 24.
*Turtles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.