1 – 1 1/2 lbs. whole unsalted pecans
1 lb. milk chocolate
36 – 40 cubes caramel candies, unwrapped
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat the paper with cooking spray. Create small clusters of 3 – 4 pecans along the cookie sheet. Gently place a cube of caramel in the center of each pecan cluster. Bake the clusters at 350 degrees for 4 – 6 minutes or until the caramel has softened. Melt the chocolate in the microwave. This should take about 1 – 2 minutes. Spoon the melted chocolate over each cluster to completely cover the caramel. Make sure to keep the ends of the pecans exposed for color and interest. Chill the clusters in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the chocolate to set. Serve at room temperature. Makes 36 – 40 turtles.
Authors Note: It’s important to bring the turtles to room temperature before serving. I learned the caramel becomes hard as a rock when they are cold. The last thing you want is someone breaking a tooth.