Easy Christmas Pecan Turtles are the ultimate holiday candy , crunchy toasted pecans, gooey caramel, and rich chocolate all come together in bite-sized perfection. These classic treats are a must-make for Christmas cookie trays, homemade gifts, and festive dessert tables.
With just three simple ingredients and a few minutes of prep, these chocolate-covered caramel pecan clusters taste just like the fancy store-bought version but are incredibly easy to make at home. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of chewy, crunchy, and creamy textures , a combination that never fails to impress. Whether you’re preparing holiday goodie boxes, cookie exchanges, or after-dinner treats, these Christmas Pecan Turtles will become a cherished family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pecan halves (about 1 pound)
- 30 soft caramels (like Kraft or Werther’s)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 2 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
- Sea salt flakes (optional, for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Toast the Pecans
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes, stirring once.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Step 2: Arrange the Pecan Clusters
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place 3 pecan halves together in a small cluster (resembling a turtle shape) on the sheet.
- Repeat with remaining pecans, leaving about 1 inch between each cluster.
Step 3: Melt the Caramel
- In a small saucepan, combine unwrapped caramels and heavy cream over low heat.
- Stir until smooth and creamy (about 5 minutes).
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted caramel over the center of each pecan cluster.
- Let the caramel set for 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
Step 4: Add the Chocolate
- Melt chocolate chips (and coconut oil, if using) in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
- Spoon about 1 teaspoon of melted chocolate over each caramel cluster, covering it completely.
- Optional: sprinkle with sea salt flakes or festive sprinkles while the chocolate is still warm.
Step 5: Chill and Set
- Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes or until the chocolate hardens.
- Store at room temperature in a cool place or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Turtles: Use bittersweet chocolate for a richer, more intense flavor.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: After setting, drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a festive look.
- Pretzel Base: Add a mini pretzel under the pecans for a salty-sweet crunch.
- Pecan Turtle Bark: Spread the ingredients over a baking sheet and break into chunks for a rustic twist.
Cooking Notes
- Be sure pecans are fresh , they’re the star flavor here!
- Toasting enhances their nuttiness and makes a huge difference.
- Use high-quality chocolate for the smoothest finish.
- Let caramels cool slightly before adding chocolate to avoid melting separation.
Serving Suggestions
- Arrange in mini cupcake liners for easy serving and gifting.
- Add to your Christmas cookie tray for variety.
- Pair with hot cocoa or coffee for a delightful holiday treat.
- Wrap in decorative tins or clear gift bags with red ribbons , perfect edible gifts!
Tips
- If using homemade caramel, make sure it’s thick enough to hold shape.
- For nut-free versions, substitute pecans with pretzels and drizzle with caramel.
- To make in advance, store in airtight containers up to 2 weeks or freeze for 2 months.
- Avoid refrigerating too long , it can cause the chocolate to lose its shine.
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Information (per piece, 24 servings)
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
FAQs
Q1: Can I make Christmas Pecan Turtles without an oven?
- Yes! You can skip toasting if you prefer raw pecans, though toasting enhances flavor.
Q2: Can I use caramel bits instead of wrapped caramels?
- Absolutely , caramel bits melt faster and work perfectly with a bit of cream.
Q3: How do I store them?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Q4: Can I freeze them?
- Yes, freeze in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 2 months.
Q5: Why are they called “turtles”?
- Because the clusters resemble tiny turtles , the pecans form the “legs” and “head,” while caramel and chocolate form the shell!
Conclusion
Easy Christmas Pecan Turtles are the perfect no-fuss holiday treat , beautifully simple, deliciously rich, and endlessly giftable. With crunchy pecans, creamy caramel, and smooth chocolate, every bite tastes like Christmas joy. Whether you’re filling gift tins or enjoying them straight from the tray, these candy classics are guaranteed to spread cheer all season long.